Iran Boycotts World Cup Draw Over U.S. Visa Denials: A Clear Case of Sovereignty and Security Prioritization

As the world turns its eyes toward the upcoming 2026 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a diplomatic snag has emerged that underscores a fundamental truth: American sovereignty and security must come first—even in global sports.Iran’s recent decision to boycott the World Cup draw scheduled for December 5 at Washington’s Kennedy Center is not an isolated act of defiance but a direct consequence of the Trump administration’s firm travel policies prioritizing national safety. According to Iranian state media, members of Tehran’s soccer delegation were denied visas, with obstacles cited as going beyond routine...