Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned for nearly seven hours after arriving in the United States with the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, according to an Iraqi sports official.
The official, who works with the Iraqi Olympic Committee and has close links to the team, said Hussein was stopped at Chicago O’Hare International Airport early on Saturday. He was later allowed to enter the country.
However, the team’s photographer, Talal Salah, was denied entry after being held for more than 10 hours, the official said.
The official added that both Hussein and Salah had their phones checked during the process.
There was no immediate response from the Iraqi Football Association or from Hussein himself. The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and the Department of Homeland Security also did not comment on the reports.
Fans welcomed the Iraq squad at the airport after their arrival. Videos shared on social media showed supporters waving flags and taking photos with players less than a week before the start of the tournament.
Hussein is one of Iraq’s most important players. The 30 year old scored the goal that secured the country’s place at the World Cup.
Iraq are returning to football’s biggest tournament for the first time since their only previous appearance 40 years ago.
The team will rely on a strong attack led by Hussein. The forward line also includes Ipswich Town striker Ali Al Hamadi and young talents Ali Jassim and Youssef Amyn.
The World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, begins on Thursday.
