Iran's sports minister has stated that the country cannot participate in this summer's World Cup in North America under any circumstances, according to reports. Ahmad Donyamali told Iranian state television that the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by the United States and Israel made participation impossible.
The United States and Israel launched air strikes on Iran on February 28, which killed Khamenei. Iran retaliated with attacks on Israel and other countries housing US military bases. Donyamali said, 'Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.'
Iran are scheduled to play all three group games in the United States and could face the co-hosts in the round of 32. Donyamali added, 'Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist. Given the malicious actions they have carried out against Iran, they have forced two wars on us over eight or nine months and have killed and martyred thousands of our people.'
FIFA president Gianni Infantino had earlier posted on Instagram that US President Donald Trump assured him Iran would be 'welcome' to compete. Trump had previously said he 'really didn't care' if Iran played, but Infantino insisted Trump was supportive after their meeting.
Meanwhile, six members of Iran's delegation have been granted humanitarian visas in Australia following the team's exit from the Women's Asian Cup. Five players initially sought asylum, and a further player and a support staff member later indicated they wished to remain. One of those two later changed their mind and decided to return to Iran.
