In response to President Donald Trump’s caution that the Iranian national team’s “life and safety” might be at risk during the tournament in the United States, Iran has declared that no nation can unilaterally exclude it from participating in the FIFA World Cup.

Iran’s national football team issued a pointed statement on social media, asserting that the FIFA World Cup falls under FIFA’s authority alone not that of any individual nation.

They further suggested that if a co-hosting country like the United States cannot guarantee the security of participating teams, it is that host not Iran that should face exclusion from the event.

The statement came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the issue. Days earlier, Trump had assured FIFA President Gianni Infantino that Iranian players would be welcome to compete in the tournament.

Yet, in a subsequent Truth Social post, Trump wrote that Iran was welcome but warned it might not be suitable for them to attend, citing risks to their “own life and safety.”

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico marking the first time three countries have co-hosted the tournament.

This announcement (or reminder) comes against the backdrop of heightened global tensions due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

The escalation began with joint U.S. Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets in late February 2026, which resulted in significant casualties, including the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and triggered retaliatory missile and drone attacks from Iran.

Despite these regional uncertainties, former President (and current context suggests President) Trump has reassured that the World Cup will remain safe for players, fans, and attendees.

He noted that ticket demand is already “through the roof,” reflecting strong enthusiasm for the event despite the geopolitical challenges.