The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran has had a direct impact on the FIFA Club World Cup, with Inter Milan striker Mehdi Taremi stranded in Tehran and set to miss the tournament. Following Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and military commanders, Iranian airspace has been closed until further notice, leading to the suspension of all flights from Iranian airports. This has left Taremi unable to join his Inter teammates in Los Angeles, where they are preparing for the start of the competition.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which began on June 14th and continues until July 13th, is being held in the United States for the first time. The tournament features a new, expanded format with 32 teams from across the globe competing in cities such as Miami, Seattle, and Los Angeles. The opening match saw Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, face off against Al-Ahly of Egypt at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Inter Milan is scheduled to play their first match under new coach Cristian Chivu against Monterrey on June 18th.

Taremi's absence is a significant blow to Inter Milan's chances in the Club World Cup. The Iranian international joined Inter from Porto last year and is a key member of their attack. His inability to leave Iran and join the squad means he will miss at least the opening match against Monterrey. Italian media outlets are reporting that the 32-year-old is likely to miss the entire tournament, regardless of whether Iranian airspace reopens soon.

The closure of Middle Eastern airspace has caused widespread disruption to air travel, with hundreds of flights being canceled or rerouted. Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv has been shut down until further notice, and several airlines, including Emirates, Etihad, and Air Arabia, have suspended flights to destinations across the Middle East, Caucasus, and Central Asia. This has affected thousands of passengers and has led to increased fuel costs and longer journey times for airlines.

The situation remains tense, and it is unclear when normal air travel will resume in the region. Until then, Mehdi Taremi will remain in Tehran, unable to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup with his Inter Milan teammates. The tournament continues in the United States, but the shadow of the conflict in the Middle East looms large, impacting both the sporting world and global travel.