DHS Loosens Travel Rules for Iranian World Cup Team

The squad has been forced to host its home base in Tijuana, Mexico, due to the stringent travel rules implemented by the Trump administration.

R Iran Belgium WCup Soccer

Iran’s participation in the World Cup has been overshadowed by the country’s war with the United States. Ringo Chiu/AP

The Department of Homeland Security is loosening its security restrictions for the Iranian World Cup team, which has been forced to host its home base in Tijuana, Mexico, due to the stringent travel rules implemented by the Trump administration.

Players will now be allowed to enter the United States up to 48 hours before their next game in Seattle — 24 hours more than what they had previously been allowed.

The move comes as President Donald Trump is aiming to advance diplomatic efforts with Iran, though Iranian officials have continued to criticize restrictions on their team and staff during the tournament.