Amidst Visa Battles and Strict Travel Bans, Iran's Team Makes an Unusual Gesture After Their Latest World Cup Match

Amid visa battles and strict travel bans, Iran’s men’s national soccer team made an unusual peace gesture after its latest World Cup match against Belgium. Following a 0-0 draw at Los Angeles Stadium, the team left a handwritten note in its dressing room that urged “peace, respect and friendship” among nations. The message also linked Iran’s historical identity to its modern state, thanked Los Angeles for hospitality, and expressed gratitude to Iranian fans. It additionally referenced an attack on a girls’ school in Minab that reportedly killed at least 168 people. The Football Federation of Iran shared the note, with the broader tournament marred by visa issues and venue disruptions. Iran’s backroom staff faced U.S. entry visa denials, moving the team’s base from Arizona to Tijuana. Travel rules limited flights into the U.S. to a day before matches and departures the same day.