World News
Palestinian musician Saint Levant postpones North American tour over US visa delays
The singer rescheduled performances to 2027 following late requests for additional background screening.
The short version
- Palestinian singer-songwriter Marwan Abdelhamid, known as Saint Levant, has delayed his debut North American tour until spring 2027.
- Abdelhamid stated that his US visa was initially approved before authorities unexpectedly required further background checks.
- The postponement reflects broader entry difficulties faced by international performers amid tightened US immigration and visa enforcement.
Key facts
- Marwan Abdelhamid postponed the North American leg of his 41-date tour, which was organized to support his second album, AFANDI, until spring 2027.[Al Jazeera]
- Abdelhamid stated on social media that his US visa had received initial approval before he was subjected to additional background checks.[Al Jazeera]
- Multiple international acts, including the band Tinariwen and Mexican singer Diego Millan, have faced cancellations or visa revocations disrupting US performance schedules.[Al Jazeera]
- The Trump administration has implemented stricter immigration measures, including suspending processing for 75 nations and pursuing visa cancellations for individuals voicing support for Palestinian rights.[Al Jazeera]
What remains uncertain
- It remains unknown whether US immigration authorities will ultimately clear Abdelhamid's visa following the additional background checks.[Al Jazeera]