Aymen Hussein, Iraq’s World Cup striker, was subjected to an extensive questioning session lasting almost seven hours upon his arrival at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport early Saturday, as confirmed by an official from the Iraqi sporting community.
Though Hussein was eventually permitted entry into the United States, the team’s photographer faced a different fate, being denied access altogether, according to a source affiliated with the Iraqi Olympic Committee who maintains close ties with the team.
As of now, there has been no response from the Iraqi Football Association, nor has Hussein commented on the situation. The striker is notably recognized for scoring the decisive goal that led to Iraq’s qualification for the tournament.
Neither the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement nor the Department of Homeland Security provided immediate responses to inquiries regarding the questioning, which has also been reported by various Iraqi media outlets.
Fans gathered at the airport in the early hours to welcome the Iraqi squad, displaying flags and requesting photographs with the players, just days ahead of the tournament’s commencement, as seen in social media footage.
Upon arrival, Hussein’s phone was reportedly inspected, as indicated by the Iraqi official.
“Talal Salah, the national team photographer, was detained for over ten hours, underwent similar phone inspections, and was ultimately refused entry into the United States,” the official explained.
This marks Iraq’s first return to the World Cup in 40 years since their debut appearance.
At 30 years old, Hussein leads a formidable attacking lineup that includes Ipswich Town’s Ali Al-Hamadi, alongside promising young talents Ali Jassim and Youssef Amyn.
In Group I, Iraq will compete against France, Senegal, and Norway.
The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is set to kick off on Thursday.
