United States President Donald Trump has cautioned Iran’s national football team that their safety could be at risk if they participate in the upcoming World Cup in North America.

His warning comes just two days after he told FIFA President Gianni Infantino that Iranian players would be welcome at the tournament despite the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated: “The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to participate in the World Cup, but I truly don’t believe it is appropriate for them to be there, considering their own lives and safety.”

The war, triggered by US and Israeli attacks on February 28, has cast uncertainty over Iran’s participation in the men’s World Cup this summer, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Infantino, who heads the global football governing body, noted earlier this week that during a White House meeting with Trump, they discussed the “current situation in Iran.” Following the meeting, Infantino confirmed that Trump had assured him the Iranian team is welcome to take part in the tournament.

In a related development, Trump also commented on Iranian women footballers who recently visited Australia, suggesting they should be granted asylum. The players had reportedly feared punishment in Iran after declining to sing the national anthem before an Asian Cup match.