Iran threatens to stop World Cup games over protests, unauthorized flags

Iran has threatened to halt World Cup matches if unauthorized flags are displayed or anti-team slogans are chanted during games, according to Iranian media reports. Ahmad Donyaimali, Iran's Minister of Sports, stated that FIFA has been notified of this potential action.

The Iranian government appears concerned about potential protests, possibly related to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps or LGBTQ+ rights. Protests occurred during the FIFA Congress in Vancouver in April, where demonstrators called for Iran's exclusion from tournaments, arguing the national team represents the Revolutionary Guard rather than the Iranian people.

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We have notified FIFA that if unofficial flags are brought into the World Cup stadium or if slogans against the national team are heard, we will definitely hold them responsible for stopping the match.

Adding to the controversy, Iran and Egypt have both criticized the designation of their upcoming match as a "Pride Match." Both nations have laws or policies that are seen as oppressive towards the LGBTQ+ community. Iran has reportedly received assurances from FIFA that no disruptions will occur during the match.

The team's preparations have also been complicated by visa issues. While players received visas, some staff members were denied entry into the United States. Furthermore, Iran's allocated ticket quota for its fans was reportedly canceled, which the Iranian Football Federation criticized as an attempt to obstruct their supporters.

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We have received assurances from FIFA that no disruptive activities will occur during the match against Egypt.