Dutch PM Jetten condemns U.S. World Cup extra screening of African and Arab travelers

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten criticized strict U.S. border controls affecting some World Cup participants and supporters from Arab and African countries. Jetten called the measures a “small blemish” on the tournament, saying they politicize what should be a unifying global sporting event.

The comments follow reports that U.S. authorities denied entry to a referee from Somalia after allegations of links to terrorism. Travelers from other African and Arab countries were also reportedly subjected to unusually strict screening upon arrival and, in some cases, were not allowed into the country at all.

Jetten also said it is deeply unfortunate that the United States appears to be departing from earlier assurances that all participants would be able to enter the country without difficulty for the tournament.

The prime minister added that relations between the United States and Europe, including the Netherlands, always involve significant issues to discuss. He noted that he is in nearly weekly contact with the White House but said he has not yet raised this specific matter.