Iraq's Star Striker Aymen Hussein Detained for Hours Upon Arrival in U.S. for World Cup

Iraq's leading goal scorer, Aymen Hussein, faced a significant delay and interrogation upon arriving in the United States for the 2026 World Cup. The 30-year-old striker was detained for nearly seven hours at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, with his phone also undergoing a thorough inspection, according to an official from the Iraqi Olympic Committee who spoke to Reuters.

While Hussein was ultimately permitted to enter the U.S., the team's photographer, Talal Salah, was not as fortunate. Salah was reportedly held for over 10 hours, subjected to similar phone checks, and ultimately denied entry into the country.

Hussein has been a key player for Iraq, scoring 33 goals in 93 appearances for the national team. He notably scored three goals against Vietnam in the 2023 Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers. His decisive goal secured Iraq's 2-1 victory over Bolivia in the intercontinental playoff, earning them the final spot in the 2026 World Cup.

The Iraqi team is scheduled to be based at the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia during the World Cup. They are drawn in Group I alongside France, Senegal, and Norway. Their opening match is against Norway on June 17, followed by games against France on June 23 and Senegal on June 27.

Neither Aymen Hussein, the Iraqi Football Association, nor U.S. authorities have issued official statements regarding the detention and denial of entry.

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The photographer of the Iraqi national team, Talal Salah, was held for over 10 hours, underwent similar phone checks as Hussein, and was ultimately denied entry into the United States.