The Iran Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said the current security situation and tensions with the United States make it impossible for the country to take part.
He added that ongoing conflicts in recent months have resulted in thousands of deaths, leaving no realistic conditions for Iran to participate in the tournament.
LOGICALLY, IRAQ OR THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES COULD REPLACE IRAN!
For context, Iraq currently has a playoff against the winner of Suriname vs Bolivia
If the Iraqis win, they will qualify for the World Cup, and United Arab Emirates could then be selected as the replacement.
If Iraq loses, they themselves could be chosen to replace Iran in Group C alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt .
