Iraq World Cup striker Aymen Hussein detained at Chicago airport; photographer barred

Iraqi World Cup star Aymen Hussein faced a nearly seven-hour detention and questioning at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport upon arrival with the national team. While Hussein was eventually permitted to enter the United States, the team's photographer was denied entry.

The incident, which occurred early Saturday, involved Hussein's phone being inspected. An Iraqi sporting official, who works for the Iraqi Olympic Committee, confirmed the details, adding that the national team photographer, Talal Salah, was held for over 10 hours, also underwent phone checks, and was ultimately barred from entering the U.S.

Hussein is a key player for Iraq, having scored the goal that secured the team's qualification for the World Cup. This marks Iraq's return to the tournament for the first time in 40 years. The team is set to compete in Group I against France, Senegal, and Norway, with the tournament co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, kicking off on Thursday.

Neither the Iraqi Football Association nor Aymen Hussein immediately commented on the situation. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

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National team photographer Talal Salah was held for more than 10 hours, underwent similar phone checks, and was ultimately denied entry into the United States.