What reasons did US authorities give for denying Omar Artan entry?

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US Authorities Cited Alleged Association with Terrorist Organisations for Denying Omar Artan Entry

US immigration authorities denied Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan entry into the United States due to an alleged association with suspected members of terror organisations. Artan, who had been selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was detained and questioned for 11 hours at Miami International Airport. His diplomatic passport and single-entry US visa were subsequently rejected.
Allegations of Terrorist Links

The basis for Artan's denied entry, as stated by a US government official, was an alleged "association with suspected members of terror organisations." Artan himself reported being questioned by border officials regarding purported links to the Somali militant group Al-Shabaab. He maintained that he had no knowledge of or connection to this organisation.
Questioning and Document Rejection

Upon arrival at Miami International Airport, Artan underwent an extensive 11-hour questioning period with US immigration authorities. During this process, both his diplomatic passport and his single-entry US visa were invalidated, preventing his entry into the country.
Full Tournament Fee Guaranteed

Despite being denied entry and unable to participate in the World Cup, FIFA has confirmed that Omar Artan will receive his full tournament fee. This commitment ensures Artan is compensated for his selection as a referee for the competition, even though he will not be officiating any matches.

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What reasons did US authorities give for denying Omar Artan entry?

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