Iraq's Star Striker Aymen Hussein Detained at O'Hare Airport

Iraq's World Cup striker, Aymen Hussein, was detained at Chicago's O'Hare airport for nearly seven hours. After scrutiny, he was allowed entry, but the team's photographer was barred. The incident, lacking comments from both U.S. authorities and Hussein, has garnered media attention as Iraq returns to the World Cup after 40 years.

Iraqi World Cup striker Aymen Hussein faced a seven-hour detention on arrival at Chicago's O'Hare airport, according to a senior Iraqi sporting official. He was eventually permitted to enter the U.S., though the team's photographer was denied entry.

The Iraqi Olympic Committee reported no immediate statements from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or the Department of Homeland Security regarding the interrogation, which received coverage from Iraqi news outlets.

This incident comes as Iraq prepares for their World Cup return after 40 years, set to play against France, Senegal, and Norway. Soccer fans had gathered at the airport to welcome the team ahead of the tournament kickoff on Thursday.