Iraqi Footballer Held at Chicago Airport for About Seven Hours

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi national football team striker Aymen Hussein was held for approximately seven hours by immigration and security officials at Chicago O'Hare International Airport upon arriving in the United States for a competition. The player was delayed while completing security screening procedures that also included confiscation of his mobile phone, according to officials at the airport. Hussein was released after questioning and examination procedures concluded, allowing him to rejoin the squad at their accommodation in Chicago. The Iraqi national team had arrived in the U.S. city earlier on the same day following a long journey. The incident drew attention in Iraq, where Hussein is expected to feature prominently in the team's attacking line during the tournament. Iraq is drawn in a group alongside Norway, France and Senegal. No further details about the questioning were immediately available.