Iran won’t play in World Cup, minister says

Iran Won’t Play in World Cup, Minister Says

The nation’s sports minister declared that Iran will not participate in the World Cup under any conditions. This statement follows rising tensions between the country and its adversaries, with the Iranian team’s presence in the tournament now in question.

Following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, Tehran has launched retaliatory attacks on American interests across the Middle East. This conflict has cast a shadow over Iran’s participation, as the government seeks to assert its stance amid escalating hostilities.

FIFA’s head, Gianni Infantino, met with US President Donald Trump to discuss preparations for the tournament, where the US is a co-host, and assured that Iran’s involvement remains viable. However, the minister’s remarks contradict these assurances, highlighting the divide between the two sides.

“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran will not participate in the World Cup under any circumstances,” the sports minister stated.

Mehdi Taj, head of Iran’s football federation, echoed concerns, asking, “Who would send the national team into such a scenario?” The question underscores the team’s dilemma as they prepare for matches in the US, set for June, against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.

Despite Trump’s earlier remarks that “I really don’t care” about Iran’s participation, the president emphasized support for the team’s inclusion in the World Cup. In an Instagram post, Infantino reiterated that the Iranian squad is welcome to compete in the United States.

Meanwhile, the conflict has also impacted the Iranian women’s team. Five players and one staff member were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia after refusing to sing the national anthem, raising fears for their safety. One player has since returned to Iran.

A travel ban imposed by Trump prevents Iranian fans from attending the tournament in America this summer, though teams are expected to receive exemptions for participation. The World Cup’s chief operating officer added that the event will proceed as planned, calling it too monumental to be postponed amid global unrest.

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