Trump administration reveals why Somalian referee was denied entry into USA
The administration of United States President Donald Trump has disclosed that top Somalian referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was denied entry into the country to officiate at the 2026 World Cup due to issues relating to terrorism. It was indicated that when the referee arrived in the country, he was thoroughly inspected and interrogated by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to determine his eligibility. During the process, officials discovered that referee Artan was allegedly linked to terror organizations, which violated US regulations. 2026 World Cup: Africa’s top referee Omar Abdulkadir denied entry into the United States In a statement provided to FOX by a Trump administration official, it was explained that the Somalian referee’s alleged links to terrorism led to his visa denial as the US tightened its security. “This individual was seeking admission to the United States. Upon further inspection by CBP, derogatory information, including association with suspected members of terror organizations, was discovered, making the traveler ineligible for admission to the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). “The traveler was refused admission and given immigration forms that provide the section of law used to complete an expedited removal under 8235 of the INA. President Trump’s administration will not allow any security threat to enter our country,” the statement read. Artan, who had previously overcome visa complications after a wave of online support helped secure his approval, finally made the journey to the United States. According to reports, he traveled from Kenya, transited through Turkey, and eventually landed in the US with hopes of joining other elite officials preparing for FIFA duties. But upon arrival, the situation took a dramatic turn. Immigration authorities denied him entry, sending him back to Turkey. This move has generated widespread condemnation and criticisms across the globe, as FIFA could not intervene ahead of the tournament. SB/JE Two rescued, one in critical condition after building collapse at Avenor
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