Omar Artan given hero’s welcome in Somalia after referee’s US entry blocked
Summary
Omar Artan, a top Somali referee chosen for the World Cup, was denied entry to the US due to security concerns linked to suspected terror connections. He returned to Somalia, where he was welcomed by supporters, while FIFA confirmed he cannot participate in the tournament starting in Mexico City.Key Facts
- Omar Artan is a Somali referee selected to officiate at the World Cup, making him the first from Somalia to do so.
- The US government blocked Artan’s entry, citing links to suspected terror groups.
- Artan arrived in Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital, and was welcomed by many supporters and officials.
- FIFA stated Artan cannot train or referee at the World Cup due to his denial of entry.
- Somalia’s government tried to negotiate with the US and FIFA but was unsuccessful.
- US Customs and Border Protection said Artan was found inadmissible after arriving in Miami from Istanbul.
- The Somali embassy in Kenya confirmed Artan had received a US visa before being turned away.
- The Trump administration has a strict immigration policy, including a travel ban affecting Somalia.
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