US Homeland Security Chief Celebrates Iran's World Cup Elimination Amid Political Tensions

Mark Milley, the United States Homeland Security Secretary, openly celebrated Iran's elimination from the 2022 FIFA World Cup, describing his reaction as a "dance of joy." Iran's national team narrowly missed advancing to the knockout stage after finishing all three group matches in a draw, ultimately ranking ninth among third-placed teams. Austria's last-minute goal against Algeria in the final group game prevented Iran from progressing, as only the top eight third-placed teams advanced.

During a security briefing in Washington, Milley expressed his happiness over Iran's exit, stating, "I was so happy they got kicked out," and noted the extensive scrutiny the US had placed on the Iranian team. The US government had imposed strict restrictions on the Iranian team's movements during the tournament, including relocating their training base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, limiting their time in the US before matches, and requiring immediate departure after games.

Milley also claimed that nearly half of the individuals Iran sought to bring to the US for the World Cup were directly linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, a claim the Iranian Football Federation denied as baseless. Iran's coach, Amir Ghalenoei, criticized the US for unfair treatment, calling their behavior "truly horrible" and expressing hope that the world would recognize this.

In response to the political tensions, Iran left notes in their locker rooms after their final matches, emphasizing their pride and dignity despite the circumstances. One note in Inglewood, California, highlighted Iran's enduring cultural spirit, while another in Seattle stressed the importance of fairness and respect in football. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, known for his ties to former US President Donald Trump, had previously awarded Trump FIFA's first Peace Award in December.