US grants visas to Iran World Cup footballers

Washington has confirmed that Iran's World Cup players have been issued visas to enter the United States, ten days before their first match in Los Angeles. The team will be based in Mexico during the tournament, but all three of their group stage matches will be held in the US. Iranian media are reporting that some staff travelling with the national team are yet to be given visas. Also: Downing Street hits out at ''people seeking to stir division'' after JD Vance blamed the murder of a British student on the "mass invasion of migrants". The crew of the International Space Station get the all clear after being put on standby to evacuate because of leaks. President Putin firmly rejects Volodymyr Zelensky's invitation to have face-to-face talks about ending their war. Why some politicians in France are unhappy about a banquet craze taking over towns and villages. And the actor Anthony Head who starred in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Ted Lasso has died at the age of 72. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk Photo: Iran's Amir Razzaghinia, Ali Nemati and Hossein Kanani line up during the national anthems before their International Friendly against Gambia in May 2026 Credit: REUTERS/Umit Bektas