Key facts
- DHS will allow Iran's World Cup team to enter the U.S. two days before their June 26 match against Egypt.
- The team must depart the U.S. after the match.
- This change addresses previous complaints from the Iranian team about travel restrictions.
- The decision was described as planned, contingent on smooth initial travel.
- The team has faced difficulties with U.S. entry and exit procedures.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has eased travel restrictions for Iran's national football team, allowing them to enter the country two days before their World Cup match against Egypt on June 26. This change addresses previous complaints from the team about travel limitations impacting their preparation and recovery.
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, stated that the decision was planned and contingent on the smooth execution of initial travel movements. The policy shift comes amid ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Iran regarding the war in Iran. Iran's Football Federation confirmed the team will travel from its base camp in Tijuana, Mexico, to Seattle following the announcement.
Iran's squad had previously expressed frustration with the travel restrictions, which they argued disadvantaged the team, particularly with less than 24 hours on the ground before matches. Iran's coach, Amir Ghalenoei, highlighted the need for recovery, while captain Alireza Jahanbakhsh requested the same procedures afforded to other participating teams. The team also reported significant delays entering and exiting the U.S. for previous matches.
Earlier in the week, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin alleged that an individual with ties to Iran's Revolutionary Guard had attempted to enter the country, a claim vehemently denied by Iran's soccer federation. Players have largely focused on the sport, though some have worn pins referencing casualties from a missile strike at the war's outset.
It remains unclear whether Iran's opponent, Egypt, will receive similar travel accommodations. FIFA denied Egypt's request to fly directly to Seattle after their recent match, citing security resource limitations, and the team returned to its base camp in Spokane, Washington.