Iran has qualified for the men's World Cup this summer - and the team is expected to play its three group matches in the United States. But President Donald Trump has said he believes it would be inappropriate for Iran to participate in the World Cup, given the ongoing war.
The World Cup will also be held in Mexico and Canada - and Iran is now appealing to FIFA to move the country's matches to Mexico.
"I hope that conditions are created so that we can participate," says Sports Minister Ahmed Donjamali, according to the Iranian news agency IRNA.
In the group stage, Iran will face Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt.
DPA has contacted FIFA for comment.
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