Iran could withdraw from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the country’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali suggested participation may no longer be possible.

Donyamali cited escalating tensions in the Middle East and the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, as the main reason the country may boycott the tournament.

“Given that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, we cannot take part in the World Cup under any circumstances,” Donyamali said in comments reported by Al Jazeera Media Network.

Many Iranians believe the killing involved Israel with support from the United States, which is one of the co-hosts of the 2026 tournament alongside Canada and Mexico.

Iran were drawn in Group G with Belgium national football team, Egypt national football team, and New Zealand national football team.

Their involvement in the competition has already faced uncertainty after U.S. authorities reportedly denied visas to several members of Iran’s delegation—including federation president Mehdi Taj—for the World Cup draw last year.