Trump warns Iranian World Cup team away from U.S. for 'their own life and safety' Iran’s national soccer team is set to play three matches in the United States during the 2026 World Cup, but the country’s sports minister has said the team will not participate due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the U.S., and Israel. Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali stated Wednesday that the team’s absence is a direct response to the “corrupt regime” responsible for the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior officials. Donyamali’s comments were broadcast on state television, as reported by Reuters. President Donald Trump reiterated his stance on Thursday, warning that the Iranian team would not be safe in the U.S. for the World Cup. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, “The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.” The U.S. has scheduled Iran’s opening group matches for June 2026, with games against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and a match against Egypt in Seattle. The Iranian government’s decision to withdraw from the tournament follows the escalation of hostilities between Iran and its adversaries. The conflict, which has seen significant military actions, including strikes on Iranian infrastructure, has led to heightened tensions. Donyamali’s statement framed the team’s absence as a necessary measure to protect its members, emphasizing the perceived threat posed by the U.S.-backed coalition. This situation echoes historical precedents of nations boycotting international sporting events due to geopolitical tensions. For example, the U.S.#iran #united_states #truth_social #ahmad_donyamali #iranian_sports_minister
