Iraq Star Held at US Airport Ahead of World Cup

Aymen Hussein, a pivotal player for Iraq's World Cup team, was detained and questioned for approximately seven hours upon the squad's arrival at Chicago O'Hare airport early on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Although Hussein was ultimately allowed to enter the United States, the team's photographer was not so fortunate.

Talal Salah, the national team photographer, was reportedly held for over ten hours, subjected to extensive phone checks, and ultimately denied entry into the U.S. These incidents unfolded as the Iraqi team arrived for the tournament, marking their return to the World Cup stage for the first time in four decades. The team, featuring Hussein alongside other talents, is set to compete in Group I against France, Senegal, and Norway, with the tournament commencing on Thursday.