Iran to grant women entry into stadium for football games

The head of Iran’s football association said women in Iran would be allowed to watch football matches in stadiums in the future.

Until now, women in Iran have only been allowed in the stands on a few exceptions, most recently at the friendly match against Russia.

When and under what conditions Iranian women will be allowed to watch matches in stadiums was initially unclear.

“Fortunately, the country’s Security Council has approved this issue and set up a working group to decide on its implementation,” Iranian Football Federation chief Mehdi Taj said on the sidelines of an event.

The country’s arch-conservative clergy argued that women had no business in stadiums with fanatical male fans.

Under pressure from the world governing body FIFA, the ban has been somewhat relaxed in recent years.

Iran’s powerful Security Council, above the parliament, deals with defence issues and protecting the Islamic Revolution.

Its decisions are final after the religious leader approves them.

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