U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin says he is “so happy” that Iran has been eliminated from the World Cup, remarks that prompt sharp criticism from Iranian officials. According to multiple outlets, Mullin told reporters he was relieved by Iran’s exit and added that he “might’ve sung a song or two” and even “danced a happy dance.” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi publicly condemned the comments, writing that Mullin’s conduct reflects poorly on him and highlighting concerns about the U.S. role as a tournament host. An Iranian Football Federation official also reacts by saying the remarks reveal more about Mullin than Iran’s performance.
On the field, Iran’s participation had been uncertain for months due to U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in February, but the team qualified and competed in the group stage. Iran drew all three group matches and nearly advanced; in its final group game against Egypt, it lost on a marginal offside call after a 1-1 result, leaving Iran unable to reach the last 32.
Iran’s delegation faced strict U.S. visa restrictions during the tournament, including moving its training base from Arizona to Tijuana and requiring players to leave the United States immediately after matches. Iran’s exit follows the group-stage results, while the diplomatic dispute centers on Mullin’s public reaction to the elimination.
