Iraqi footballer detained for nearly seven hours in Chicago

Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein faced a nearly seven-hour detention and questioning at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport on Saturday, as the national team arrived for World Cup qualifiers. Hussein, who scored the goal that secured Iraq's spot in the tournament, was eventually permitted entry.

However, the team's photographer, Talal Salah, was denied entry to the United States after being detained for over 10 hours and undergoing similar mobile phone checks. An official from the Iraqi Olympic Committee, who has close ties to the national team, confirmed the incidents.

Neither the Iraqi Football Association nor Hussein immediately commented on the alleged questioning, which was also reported by Iraqi media. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Iraq is making its first World Cup appearance in 40 years. Hussein, 30, leads an attack that also includes Ali Al-Hamadi of Ipswich Town and young talents Ali Jassim and Youssef Amyn. The team is set to face France, Senegal, and Norway in Group I.

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The team photographer Talal Salah was detained for more than 10 hours, underwent similar mobile phone checks and was ultimately denied entry to the United States.