Iraqi Embassy in Washington explains Chicago entry delays for national football team

WASHINGTON, United States — The Iraqi Embassy in Washington issued a statement on Saturday addressing delays experienced by two members of the Iraqi national football team delegation upon arrival in Chicago. The embassy said it had been in contact with the U.S. State Department and relevant authorities for several days to facilitate the arrival procedures of the 62-member delegation. According to the statement, all 62 members of the delegation successfully entered the United States on June 5, 2026. However, two individuals were subjected to additional immigration procedures. The embassy reported that one person's entry process was completed, while the other was denied entry due to reasons related to immigration regulations. Previous reports identified the affected individuals as footballer Ayman Hussein, who was admitted after hours of questioning at Chicago Airport, and team photographer Talal Salah, who was prohibited from entering the country. The embassy emphasized that U.S. entry procedures fall under the jurisdiction of American immigration authorities and that such decisions are implemented independently.