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War Talks Secure Iran’s World Cup Spot, ICE Raid Ban

6/2/2026

36 9 Full Breakdown

Center

Iran Enters WC

Negotiations to end the three-month U.S.–Iran war are shaping Iran’s possible participation in the World Cup.
Iran is slated to play at the World Cup after FIFA and President Donald Trump said team is welcome.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delays visit to meet President Donald Trump until after June 20 match.
Officials confirmed ICE immigration raids will not occur at the World Cup games.

Left

Advocates Block ICE

Immigrant-rights groups in all 11 World Cup host cities have launched a campaign to keep ICE agents out of stadiums.
Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers will be deployed at World Cup venues across the United States.
A union representing over 2,000 SoFi Stadium workers warned it will strike if ICE enters.
Police in Atlanta, Seattle and Los Angeles announced they will not cooperate with ICE.

History

Historical Context

In June 1998 France hosted the 16th FIFA World Cup, the first with 32 national teams and 64 matches. The United States' group-stage match against Iran was politically charged and briefly eased bilateral tension. Today, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s postponed meeting with Donald Trump and ICE protests at U.S. stadiums echo the security and diplomatic sensitivities first highlighted by that 1998 encounter.

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Iran Enters WC

Negotiations to end the three-month U.S.–Iran war are shaping Iran’s possible participation in the World Cup.
Iran is slated to play at the World Cup after FIFA and President Donald Trump said team is welcome.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delays visit to meet President Donald Trump until after June 20 match.
Officials confirmed ICE immigration raids will not occur at the World Cup games.

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