Arabic version: الولايات المتحدة تحافظ على قيود السفر لفريق إيران قبل مباراة بلجيكا

The United States will not ease the travel restrictions on the Iranian national football team for their World Cup matches in Los Angeles and Seattle. This decision comes despite Iran’s complaints and intentions to lodge a formal complaint with FIFA, as stated by Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the tournament. According to Al Jazeera, the current travel arrangements will remain in effect for the upcoming fixture against Belgium.

Iran’s team is currently restricted to traveling to matches within 24 hours before each game and must return directly to their training base in Tijuana, Mexico, after each match. The coach, Amir Ghalenoei, expressed dissatisfaction, labeling his team as “the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup.” The Iranian delegation left the U.S. hours after their first match against New Zealand, which ended at about 8 PM local time, limiting their recovery time.

The U.S. faced additional scrutiny when Iranian winger Mehdi Torabi’s entry visa expired after the initial game. However, officials confirmed that a new multiple-entry visa has been issued, allowing him to participate in future matches. The same travel protocol will apply for the match against Belgium on Sunday, with the team expected to arrive in Los Angeles approximately 24 hours before kickoff.

Giuliani indicated that the situation remains dynamic, with discussions planned for the team’s third game against Egypt in Seattle. He defended the current travel measures, highlighting that the team’s relocation from Tucson to Tijuana has actually reduced their travel time to Los Angeles. Giuliani reassured that all players and coaches have received their visas, although some team officials are still awaiting clearance due to security concerns.

He emphasized the U.S. commitment to hosting a successful World Cup while ensuring the safety of American citizens and international visitors. Although no threats to the tournament have been identified, officials are maintaining vigilance as the event progresses. Giuliani expressed satisfaction with the tournament’s initial days, noting that the focus has largely remained on the exciting matches being played.