Video shows Iraq fans attacked at Dallas airport before World Cup
Outrage has sparked online after a video emerged showing Iraqi football fans being confronted and harassed at a Dallas airport ahead of their 2026 World Cup playoff victory over Bolivia.
The viral footage depicts an individual throwing a banner to the ground and shouting aggressively at the travelling supporters.
He can be heard telling the group not to come to America while threatening to call immigration authorities.
The incident occurred as the supporters transited through Texas to Mexico for their decisive qualification fixture.
Hosting rights questioned
The airport altercation has prompted widespread condemnation across social media platforms.
Several users have called for global governing body Fifa to strip the United States of its co-hosting rights for the upcoming tournament.
Former US ambassador Luis Moreno strongly denounced the footage of his compatriots.
“They transit our country and are met with disdain, ignorance and violence,” Moreno wrote on social media.
“I don’t recognize our nation.”
Historic qualification secured
Despite the distressing scenes, the Lions of Mesopotamia went on to secure a historic triumph at the Estadio BBVA.
Aymen Hussein scored a 53rd-minute winner in a 2-1 victory to ensure the nation’s first appearance at the finals in 40 years.
The Middle Eastern side became the 48th and final team to book their place at the expanded summer tournament.
Group I challenge awaits
A demanding campaign lies ahead for the newly qualified squad.
They have been drawn into Group I alongside European heavyweights France and Norway, as well as African powerhouses Senegal.
Manager Graham Arnold praised his squad’s resilience following the landmark victory.
“Iraq has nothing to lose,” he said.
“We must go to the World Cup with a winning mentality – that’s the only way to achieve something special.”
“Sharing the pitch with players like Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland is a great honour, but we will step onto the field to try to surprise the world.”
