Travel curbs spark diplomatic commentary
The United States is maintaining stringent travel restrictions for Iran’s soccer team participating in the World Cup, limiting the squad’s movements to a narrow 24‑hour window around each match.
Under the new policy, Iran must fly to the match venue, complete the game, and then return immediately to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico, before any further travel is permitted.
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force overseeing the tournament, explained that the shift of the team’s training base from Tucson to Tijuana was intended to cut travel time and streamline logistics.
Giuliani emphasized that the restrictions are designed to safeguard the interests of both the United States and international visitors, noting that no credible threats to the tournament have been identified but officials remain vigilant.
He also expressed satisfaction with the early days of the World Cup, describing the event as an "amazing celebration of America" as it approaches its 250th anniversary.
The policy has drawn criticism from Iranian officials, who argue that the curbs hinder their team’s preparation and disrupt normal sporting rhythms.