The Iran national football team has become a political pawn at World Cup 2026. The team finds itself in an impossible position, used as a piece in the conflict between the Iranian government and the United States. The players of the Iran national football team do not set policy, yet they are treated as if they do. Iran was sent to Tijuana, Mexico, due to visa issues and changes in their training camp, resulting in a longer-than-expected journey to Los Angeles. In their opening World Cup match, the Iran national football team will face New Zealand. Team captain Mehdi Taremi expressed concern that these tensions undermine the beautiful experience and joy typically associated with the World Cup. The Iranian government is not blameless either, attempting to limit questions to those strictly about the game. However, these tournaments should be an opportunity to show solidarity and friendship, not a tool for political tensions. If the United States truly wanted to honor the people of Iran, it should have warmly welcomed the Iran national football team and its supporters.