Hawzah News Agency – As Iran endures the aftermath of a brutal 12-day war imposed by the United States and Israel, a controversial scene from the world of football has sparked widespread anger and grief among Iranians.
In a moment many are calling deeply insensitive, renowned Iranian referee Alireza Faghani, who officiated the Club World Cup final, was photographed receiving a medal from U.S. President Donald Trump — a figure widely regarded in Iran as bearing responsibility for sanctions, military aggression, and years of suffering.
The image, showing Faghani smiling as he accepted the award, circulated widely just as the nation continues to mourn its martyred generals, scientists, and civilians — victims of attacks linked directly or indirectly to U.S. and Israeli hostilities.
While Faghani now resides in Australia, many believe his symbolic presence beside Trump represents more than just sports diplomacy. “This wasn’t merely a medal,” one critic remarked. “It was a stain on national dignity.”
Critics argue that his action, especially as a referee — a global symbol of justice and fairness — was deeply inappropriate. “To accept recognition from someone whose policies have brought injustice, war, and division to our region,” said one observer, “is to remain silent in the face of crime — or worse, to endorse it.”
Alireza Faghani is undoubtedly one of the most accomplished figures in Iranian football history. Yet, as many have pointed out, history remembers not only victories and accolades but also moral choices made in times of crisis.
In this moment of national tragedy, many Iranians feel Faghani’s appearance on that stage was not a personal victory, but a painful misstep. The real "Faghan" (lament), they say, is not over a football match — but over a referee who failed on the field of conscience.
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