Iraqi Striker Hussein Held for Hours of Questioning at Chicago Airport
News Summary
Under Review.
- Iraqi footballer Ayman Hussein was detained and questioned for nearly 7 hours at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport before being allowed entry to the United States.
- Iraqi team photographer Talal Salah was interrogated for over 10 hours and ultimately denied entry into the US.
- After 40 years, Iraq has returned to the World Cup and will compete in 2026 against France, Senegal, and Norway.
June 7, Kathmandu – Iraqi footballer Ayman Hussein was held and questioned for almost seven hours upon arrival at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport in the United States.
According to Iraqi sports officials, after extensive questioning, Hussein was ultimately granted permission to enter the country. However, the photographer accompanying the team was denied entry.
Officials reported that Hussein’s mobile phone was also searched. Additionally, Talal Salah, the team’s photographer, was detained for over 10 hours of questioning and was subsequently refused entry into the US.
Neither the Iraqi Football Association nor Ayman Hussein have issued immediate statements regarding this matter. US immigration and security authorities have also refrained from commenting officially.
Ayman Hussein is Iraq’s leading striker and played a key role in helping the team qualify for the World Cup. This marks Iraq’s return to the tournament after a 40-year absence.
The squad also includes young players like Ali Al-Hamadi from Ipswich Town. Iraq is set to face France, Senegal, and Norway in the group stage.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States and is scheduled to commence in the coming days.