Iran Players’ “168” Pins Draw Sharp Reaction from U.S. Media

WANA (Jun 09) – The arrival of Iran’s national football team in Tijuana, Mexico, was accompanied by a symbolic gesture that quickly attracted attention from major American media outlets. Upon arrival, Iranian players were seen wearing pins marked “168#” on their jackets, a tribute to the 168 victims of a U.S. missile strike on Iran that hit an elementary school in the city of Minab.

Both the Los Angeles Times and The New York Times published detailed reports on the gesture, highlighting questions about whether the pins could conflict with FIFA regulations and discussing the possibility of disciplinary consequences if they are worn during official tournament activities.

In its report, the Los Angeles Times noted that the number “168” refers to the death toll from the U.S. attack on Minab in southern Iran. According to the report, many of the victims were students attending the Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School. The newspaper also pointed out that it remains unclear whether FIFA would allow members of the Iranian delegation, including coaching staff, to wear the pins in technical areas or on the sidelines during matches.

The publication added that FIFA has not yet issued an official ruling on the legality of the pins and has previously refrained from taking disciplinary action against similar symbolic gestures by Iranian players.

The New York Times raised similar concerns, citing FIFA regulations that prohibit players’ equipment from displaying political, religious, or personal messages, statements, or images. The newspaper reported that violations could result in sanctions imposed by tournament organizers or FIFA itself. It also suggested that Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei could face disciplinary measures if he were to wear the pin.

American media outlets also referenced earlier symbolic actions by the Iranian team. These included carrying purple backpacks adorned with ribbons during pre-match ceremonies and displaying photographs of victims during the national anthem before international friendlies earlier this year.

According to The New York Times, the newspaper has contacted FIFA for clarification on whether wearing the pins during the World Cup would constitute a breach of tournament regulations and is awaiting an official response.

The controversy comes as some observers argue that American media have devoted significant attention to the Iranian team’s symbolic gesture while paying comparatively less attention to criticism surrounding the host country’s handling of visa-related issues and the treatment of certain national teams entering the United States.

Iran national football team takes the field in tribute to Minab schoolchildren killed in airstrikes. Social media / WANA News Agency