Trump cautions Iran against World Cup attendance due to safety risks

On Thursday, US President Donald Trump issued a warning to Irans national football team, stating that their personal wellbeing and security could be jeopardised if they joined the forthcoming World Cup in North America.

These statements arrived merely two days following his assurance to FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Iranian competitors remained invited, even amid the Middle East conflict.

"The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really dont believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety," Trump posted on his Truth Social site.

The conflict, ignited by US Israeli attacks on 28 February, has cast uncertainty over Irans involvement in this summers mens football World Cup, co hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Trump subsequently shared an additional update on his social media outlet, underscoring that the tournament would offer security for all participants and attendees from various nations.

"The United States of America looks very much forward to hosting the FIFA World Cup," Trump stated. "Ticket sales are 'through the roof!'

"It will be the Greatest and Safest Sporting Event in American History. All Players, Officials, and Fans will be treated like the 'STARS' that they are!"

FIFA president Infantino mentioned earlier in the week that he and Trump had conversed about the "current situation in Iran" during a White House discussion.

"President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States," he noted post meeting on Tuesday.

Infantino established a FIFA peace award in December and presented it to Trump. 

His observations marked the initial occasion the football leader addressed the persistent Middle East hostilities.

This week, Trump commented on the situation involving Irans visiting female footballers in Australia, advocating for their asylum applications.

The athletes worried about potential reprisals in their homeland for refusing to perform the national anthem prior to an Asian Cup fixture.

Australia subsequently consented to provide refuge to the five team members who chose to remain.