Trump says Iran should be allowed to play in US-based World Cup games

US President Donald Trump voiced support Thursday, however tepid, for allowing Iran to play in US-based World Cup games during this summer's football competition.

"You know what? Let them play," Trump said in response to a reporter's question in the Oval Office. "(FIFA President) Gianni's (Infantino) fantastic. He's a friend of mine, and he talked about it. I said, 'You do whatever you want. You can have them. You don't have to have them.' Probably have a good team."

In announcing that Iran's national team would participate in US-based games, Gianni argued that the decision was rooted in the responsibility to "bring people together," saying that football remains a unique force that "unites the world" amid global divisions.

Iran qualified for the tournament, which kicks off on June 11 across the US, Canada, and Mexico. The team is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

Iran's request to move its matches to Mexico, a co-host, was denied by FIFA.

The path to participation remains uncertain. Ahmad Donyamali, Iran's sports minister, said the country could not take part "under any circumstances," citing the Feb. 28 killing of then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei at the start of the US-Israeli offensive. "This corrupt regime has assassinated our leader," he said.

Trump said in March that while Iran's team would be welcome at the World Cup, he did not think it was appropriate for them to attend "for their own life and safety."