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Iran’s Soccer Federation Questions World Cup Participation Amid Escalating Conflict. Iran’s soccer federation president, Mehdi Taj, said the country’s participation in this summer’s FIFA World Cup in North America is uncertain following U.S.-Israeli airstrikes. Taj told sports outlet Varzesh3 that after the attacks, Iran could no longer look ahead to the tournament “with hope.” The strikes, which reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior officials, have plunged the country into deep political and military uncertainty. U.S. President Donald Trump said the military campaign could continue for up to four weeks, further clouding Iran’s World Cup prospects. FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to ensuring a safe tournament with all qualified teams participating. Tensions between Washington and Tehran had already affected preparations, including visa disputes over Iran’s delegation for the World Cup draw. Iranian fans may face additional travel barriers due to a U.S. travel ban affecting nationals from 19 countries, including Iran. Iran is currently scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles before traveling to Seattle to play Egypt, though the ongoing conflict casts doubt over those fixtures.
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