Omar Artan, who was expected to become the first Somali referee to officiate at the tournament, arrived back in the Somali capital to a public reception that included football supporters, community members, and officials. Images and accounts shared by attendees showed crowds gathering at the airport to welcome him home after the highly publicized incident.

U.S. authorities have not publicly released detailed information regarding the case. According to statements attributed to the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, Artan was denied entry on national security grounds and questioned for approximately 11 hours, including inquiries related to the militant group Al-Shabaab. No public evidence supporting those allegations has been released.

Somali football authorities have sought clarification regarding the decision, noting that Artan had completed the required vetting process and had been issued a visa before traveling to the United States. FIFA has not publicly announced any disciplinary or eligibility concerns involving the referee.

The case has generated debate among former U.S. officials and observers. Olivia Troye, a former White House national security official, wrote on X that the circumstances surrounding Artan’s denial of entry "lead to more questions than answers.” Troye stated that Artan had been "vetted, approved, and issued a visa” before traveling and argued that the public deserved an explanation regarding what changed after his arrival.

Several Somali citizens who gathered at Mogadishu’s airport described the referee’s return as emotional. "We came to support him because he represented Somalia on the international stage,” one local football supporter told Diplomat News Network. Another attendee said many Somalis viewed the incident as disappointing given Artan’s professional achievements and international standing.

Some reports circulating on social media have alleged that Artan’s electronic devices were examined during the process and that he was held in a secure area of the airport. Diplomat News Network has not independently verified those claims, and no official confirmation has been released by U.S. authorities.

The incident comes amid broader scrutiny of U.S. immigration and security policies affecting travelers from several countries, including Somalia. Analysts say the controversy has attracted attention because it involves an internationally recognized sports official rather than a conventional immigration case.

Artan’s return has intensified calls from Somali sports officials and public figures for greater transparency regarding the decision. As questions remain unanswered, the case continues to draw interest from football authorities, policymakers, and observers monitoring the intersection of security policy, international mobility, and global sport.