World Cup: Why Iran Refused To Sing Anthem

Human rights concerns are among the many contentious topics surrounding the 2022 World Cup.

Since the previous president of FIFA, Sepp Blatter, granted Qatar the hosting rights in 2010, the World Cup has been dogged by several scandals.

The first-ever World Cup to be staged in the Middle East has been challenged by issues ranging from gay rights to the rights of migrant workers.

But despite all of Qatar’s problems, other nations have also been dealing with problems of their own. Iran entered this World Cup in a period of unrest and demonstrations at home.

Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, has been in charge of the country’s recent rebellion and widespread rallies.

Nearly 400 individuals have reportedly been slain by his security forces in the last two months, according to Iran International, whose reports have highlighted his regime’s egregious violation of women’s rights.

On November 21, when the squad lined up to play England in their first match at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, players unanimously refused to perform the national anthem. Some players have been vocally critical of his leadership.

The squad took a big risk, according to Independent journalist Borzou Daragahi, considering that Ali’s government has issued arrest warrants for the football greats who have spoken out against him.