Spanish authorities detained wealthy American political donor James "Fergie" Chambers in Ibiza on Friday following an extradition request from the United States government over alleged material support for Hamas, as reported by The Guardian.
The Spanish high court is holding Chambers without bail in Madrid and has 40 days to decide whether to grant the extradition request.
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If the court approves, the Spanish Council of Ministers will make the final decision.
Legal and Political Reactions
Attorney Stanley Cohen, with four decades of experience in terrorism cases, stated this is the first known instance of the US seeking extradition of a citizen charged with supporting Hamas.
"I don't doubt the decision was made because it looks good for Trump, for AIPAC and for Zionist supporters," Cohen said.
Cohen noted the legal move appears to be a deliberate effort to target progressive donors. "It's a conscious decision to target for political purposes," he added.
Chambers, an heir to Cox Communications who sold his stock back to his family for approximately $250 million in 2023, has used his fortune to fund progressive and humanitarian projects.
His partner, Stella Schnabel, defended his advocacy work in a public statement.
"Fergie is being jailed because he uses his wealth to support Palestine and those suffering genocide in Gaza.
In short, he is facing political persecution for having dedicated his life to building a better society, rather than exploiting people and profiting from war," Schnabel said.
