Visas abruptly canceled for 2 Palestinian humanitarian activists detained at SFO SF supervisor

U. S. Customs and Border Patrol denied visas for Palestinian activists Eid Hthaleen and Ouda Alhadlin, who were detained at San Francisco International Airport. They intended to engage in humanitarian efforts focused on raising awareness and funds for children suffering in the Middle East. San Francisco Supervisor Bilal Mahmood highlighted the rarity of such incidents, noting it had not happened in over ten years.

The activists, supported by various faith groups, were set to visit Kehilla Community Synagogue, where they had established relationships. Community members rallied for their release, showcasing solidarity across different faiths and backgrounds. They emphasized the activists' roles as peace advocates, wielding only a camera and the written word. Mahmood communicated with Congress Members Pelosi and Simon, urging them to assist in reversing the Border Patrol's decision. The Border Patrol confirmed the visas were valid upon arrival but were revoked at the airport, leaving supporters without contact with the men for over 18 hours.