"The IFA received a letter from Iraq's national airline, Iraqi Airways, and the Ministry of Transportation earlier today informing them that the country's airspace will remain closed for at least four weeks, which would leave around 40% of the squad unable to travel."
"The only alternative to flying is an arduous 25-hour journey by road from Baghdad to Turkey through northern Iraq, although that route may be discounted on safety grounds. In addition, a number of Iraq's players and backroom staff have yet to receive visas for Mexico or the United States."
"Iraq have already qualified for one of two finals in the six-team playoff tournament, which will yield two more World Cup finalists, and are due to face the winners of Bolivia v Suriname in Monterrey on 31 March."
Iraq faces significant obstacles in participating in the intercontinental World Cup playoffs scheduled for Mexico later this month. The country's airspace closure for at least four weeks prevents approximately 40% of the squad from traveling, with coach Graham Arnold currently grounded in Dubai. Alternative overland routes through northern Iraq present safety concerns. Additionally, numerous players and backroom staff lack visas for Mexico or the United States, where a training camp was planned in Houston. Embassy closures across the Middle East following US-Iran conflict complications visa processing. Iraq qualified for one of two playoff finals and is scheduled to face the Bolivia-Suriname winners in Monterrey on March 31. Iraq is also considered the likely replacement candidate for Iran should they withdraw from the World Cup.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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