US authorities question Iraq striker Aymen Hussein for seven hours
Iraq forward Aymen Hussein was held and questioned for nearly seven hours at Chicago’s O’Hare airport after arriving for the 2026 World Cup.
The 30-year-old was eventually permitted to enter the United States on Saturday morning, but the national team’s photographer was turned away.
An Iraqi sporting official confirmed that mobile devices were inspected during the prolonged border checks.
“National team photographer Talal Salah was held for more than 10 hours, underwent similar phone checks, and was ultimately denied entry into the United States.”
A formal statement from the Middle Eastern nation regarding the incident has not yet been released.
Visa issues disrupt tournament preparations
The airport delay highlights broader logistical and diplomatic challenges facing participating nations just days before the global tournament begins.
Stringent travel policies have already forced Iran to relocate their planned training camp from Arizona to Mexico.
South Africa recently convened an emergency meeting after members of their delegation were denied Mexican visas, while Swiss forward Breel Embolo has also been blocked from entering the US.
Crucial figure for returning nation
The talismanic attacker is a vital asset for his country, currently ranking as their fifth all-time leading goalscorer.
He secured his place in national folklore by netting the decisive goal that booked their spot at the upcoming finals.
The Lions of Mesopotamia are preparing to make their first appearance on football’s biggest stage since their tournament debut 40 years ago.
A dedicated group of supporters had gathered at the Chicago terminal in the early hours to welcome the squad before the lengthy detentions began.
Group stage challenges await
The squad must now refocus their efforts ahead of their opening Group I fixture against Norway in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on 16 June.
Demanding encounters against reigning world champions France and Senegal will follow in the preliminary stage.