Overview
- Iraq’s federation has formally sought a postponement of the March 31 intercontinental playoff in Mexico against the winner of Bolivia–Suriname.
- With Iraqi airspace closed and embassies shut, most players are stuck in Baghdad and several visas for Mexico and the United States have not been issued.
- Coach Graham Arnold says he cannot take the team through northern Iraq to reach Turkey, citing security risks from reported drone attacks in the region.
- Arnold has publicly urged moving the playoff to June in the United States after Bolivia–Suriname is completed this month.
- Coverage also notes uncertainty over Iran’s participation in the qualifying path, with Iraq cited as a potential replacement under AFC procedures if Iran withdraws.