With the current military conflict in the Middle East reaching a critical point, Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian football federation, expressed concerns regarding the national football team's prospects in the upcoming World Cup. According to Taj, the recent attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, have created uncertainty about the future of the Islamic Republic and increased risks of regional instability.

In a statement made to the local sports portal Varzesh3, Taj indicated that the Iranian national team may face significant challenges in participating in World Cup matches in the United States. He highlighted that the recent military actions have rendered it difficult to look toward the World Cup with any hope, given the prevailing circumstances of conflict and its implications on team dynamics and logistics.

As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, and the potential disruptions to Iran's participation in global sports events could further isolate the country on the world stage. The sentiment expressed by Taj reflects broader concerns not just for football, but for the stability and security of the region as tensions remain high after these military engagements.'