Iran has presented FIFA with a 10-point ultimatum to secure its participation in the upcoming World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada starting June 11. This announcement marks a significant statement from the Middle Eastern nation amid ongoing tensions due to its conflicts with the US and Israel.

Conditions for Participation

The Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) has made it clear that it expects the US to address its concerns regarding the tournament. FFIRI president Mehdi Taj, who faced entry denial to Canada prior to last month's FIFA Congress, revealed that Iran's participation hinges on several guarantees. While the complete list of conditions has not been publicly disclosed, Iranian journalist Alireza Akbari has reported some key demands. These include the issuance of visas without complications for all players and staff, particularly those associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and assurances that once visas are granted, players and staff will not face questioning by US immigration authorities.

Security and Symbolism

Additional demands include pre-arranged visa resolutions for Iranian journalists and fans, stringent security measures at airports, hotels, and stadiums, and restrictions on flags allowed in stadiums. Furthermore, Iran insists that its national anthem be played without disruption during matches and that press conference questions be limited to match-related topics. Reports also indicate that Iran seeks to avoid political criticism directed at its team, as well as respect for its military personnel and national symbols throughout the tournament.

Concerns regarding visa complications due to associations with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which is designated as a terrorist organization in Canada and the US, pose a potential challenge for Iran. Despite these issues, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has assured that Iran will compete in the tournament. However, Taj has warned that any further complications with visas could lead Iran to withdraw from the World Cup, emphasizing the need for guarantees regarding respect for their national symbols.