Hussein, who scored Iraq's World Cup qualification goal, was detained and interrogated upon arrival Saturday. The team photographer was denied entry.
11:18 AM
Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was held and questioned for nearly seven hours at Chicago's O'Hare airport after arriving with the squad early Saturday, according to an Iraqi sporting official.
Hussein, who scored the goal that secured Iraq's qualification for the World Cup finals for the first time in 40 years, was eventually allowed to enter the United States. However, the team's photographer was barred from entering the country after more than 10 hours of detention, said the official who works for the Iraqi Olympic Committee and maintains close contacts with the national team.
There was no immediate comment from the Iraqi Football Federation or from Hussein regarding the detention.
Iraq qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1986. Hussein's goal in the qualifying campaign proved decisive in securing the team's place in the tournament.
Bezalel Smotrich claims The Hague tribunal has sought his arrest, calling it a declaration of war and describing the court as antisemitic.
Germán Naranjo Maldini detained in São Paulo after insulting passengers and crew aboard Latam flight on May 10. Defense seeks psychiatric hospitalization instead of jail.
The 84-year-old former Manchester United manager felt unwell at Old Trafford on Sunday and was admitted to hospital as a precautionary measure.
Iraqi officials identified two Israeli-operated outposts in the western desert. Preparations for one base began in late 2024.
Prosecutors allege luxury escort operation involved players from Inter, Milan, Juve and other Serie A clubs. Four arrested.
A 21-year-old Austrian pleaded guilty to planning a terror attack on Taylor Swift's August 2024 Vienna concerts. Police found an almost completed bomb at his residence.