A hand-written letter from the Iranian national football team was discovered in their dressing room after their World Cup match against Belgium in Los Angeles, expressing gratitude and mourning the 168 people, mostly schoolgirls, killed in a US airstrike on a school in Minab, Iran.
Match and Political Context
Iran secured a crucial 0-0 draw against Belgium in their final group match, keeping their hopes alive for reaching the knockout stages. The match took place amid heightened tensions between the USA and Iran, following President Donald Trump's threat to "hit Iran very hard again" after Iran accused the US and Israel of violating a recent ceasefire by closing the Strait of Hormuz.
The Letter's Message
The letter, written in Persian, read: "From the ancient Persia thousands of years ago to the civilised Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast. We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honour, and leave with dignity. Thank you, Los Angeles, for your hospitality. And thank you to every Iranian who gave their heart, voice and soul for Iran throughout these 180 minutes. May peace, respect and friendship prevail among all nations." It also included the hashtags "#168" and "#Minab" in reference to the airstrike that killed 168 people, the majority of whom were children, at a school in Minab shortly after the US-led war with Iran began in February.
Tributes from Iranian Supporters
Iranian supporters in Los Angeles also paid their own tributes to the victims, with many holding signs and chanting for peace. The letter and the supporters' actions underscored the deep emotional impact of the conflict on the Iranian diaspora and the team.
