With Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei killed in U.S.-Israel airstrikes, the United States expressed concern about retaliatory terror attacks targeting its citizens worldwide. Ahead of the North and Central America World Cup, the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is also on high alert.
According to U.S. broadcaster CNN, on Feb. 28 local time, the State Department said in a worldwide advisory to Americans that "after the start of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans around the world, especially those in the Middle East, should follow the latest security guidance issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate."
The State Department added, "Travel may be disrupted due to periodic airspace closures," and "We advise Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution."
The State Department also told Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and subscribe to the security updates channel within the messaging application WhatsApp.
The State Department also issued a worldwide advisory to Americans on the day of the "Midnight Hammer" operation in June last year, when U.S. forces attacked Iran's nuclear facilities.
This alarm from the U.S. government came amid suggestions that retaliatory attacks targeting Americans and key U.S. facilities could occur. Some have also noted the possibility that Iran could cooperate with terrorist groups in Europe and elsewhere.
Meanwhile, FIFA is closely watching Iran's situation as it must play group-stage matches of the World Cup in the United States. ESPN reported, "Iran clinched a World Cup berth through the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) qualifiers and was drawn into Group G with Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt, playing its matches in the United States."
Iran will play two matches against Belgium and New Zealand in Los Angeles and face Egypt in Seattle.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström attended the International Football Association Board (IFAB) annual meeting and told reporters, "We have seen the news regarding Iran," adding, "We have held meetings on this, but it is too early to discuss details. That said, we will monitor all issues around the world."
He emphasized, "All participating countries attended the draw event held in Washington, and we are fully focused on ensuring all teams can play the World Cup safely," adding, "We will continue to communicate with the co-hosts (the United States, Mexico and Canada) as usual. All participating countries will be safe."