Italy’s repechage to World Cup, warning to Donald Trump: "Inexcusable"

Just over ten days before the start of the World Cup there are still doubts about the participation of the Iranian national team due to the geopolitical situation and tension between Washington and Tehran. Much revolves around the issue of visas: the U.S. has not yet prepared the necessary documents to allow all members of the Iranian delegation to enter the country.

Interviewed by Ettelaat Amir Abedini, former president of the Iranian Football Federation, had his say about the situation, “I believe that the U.S. visas will still be granted for participation in the World Cup and that there is no real cause for concern. Once obtained, team members will be able to move freely during the tournament and return without difficulty, also because Mexico is one of the host countries.”

Abedini then sent a warning to Donald Trump: “In our country, compulsory military service can be performed in different structures, including the army, police, Basij and Pasdaran. This is not an individual choice, but the application of the law. If someone wanted to use this as a reason to deny a visa, they would certainly have the power to do so but there would be no logic to it, it would be unjustifiable.”

“I reiterate that I don’t think the United States would take such a measure. They are perfectly aware of the political, social and cultural implications that such a decision would entail. Moreover, although the United States is one of the host countries, it is not the organizer of the tournament: the central role lies with FIFA.”

concluded the former president of the Iranian Football Federation.