Washington: US President Donald Trump has extended an invitation to Iran to participate in this summer's World Cup, despite ongoing hostilities between the two nations, as stated by Fifa president Gianni Infantino. Posting on Instagram, Infantino shared details of his meeting with Trump held on Tuesday, where they discussed the preparations for the upcoming tournament hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, set to commence on June 11.
According to Ghana Web, Infantino mentioned that the discussions included the current situation in Iran. Although Iran is scheduled to play three matches in the United States, their participation has been uncertain following recent military actions. The US and Israel launched strikes on Iran earlier this month, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran launched missiles and drones targeting Israel and four Gulf Arab countries that host US military bases: Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
During the discussions, Infantino noted that "President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States." He emphasized the unifying power of the World Cup, stating, "We all need an event like the Fifa World Cup to bring people together now more than ever, and I sincerely thank the president of the United States for his support, as it shows once again that football unites the world."
Iran is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and June 21, respectively, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Despite Trump's previous comments to Politico, indicating indifference towards Iran's participation, the invitation remains extended.
The conflict has cast a shadow over Iran's football federation, with its president, Mehdi Taj, expressing uncertainty and diminished hope for the World Cup following the attacks. Furthermore, Australia has taken steps to grant six humanitarian visas to members of Iran's women's team, amid concerns for their safety. Australia's Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, confirmed that seven individuals were initially granted asylum, although one later chose to return to Iran.