Iran's World Cup Squad Cleared to Enter United States

WASHINGTON, United States — The White House announced Friday that Iranian footballers have been granted entry visas to the United States for the World Cup. A White House official confirmed the approval in a written statement, clearing the way for Iran's national team to participate in the tournament. The visa decision removes the final administrative barrier to Iran's participation after weeks of uncertainty about whether the squad would be able to travel. Officials had offered conflicting statements in recent weeks about how the process would unfold. Iran is scheduled to compete in Group B at the World Cup, facing England, the United States and Wales. The approval comes despite ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran's nuclear program and other disputes. The State Department processed the visa applications as part of standard procedures for international sporting events, according to the White House statement.