Iraq’s bid to reach the World Cup finals for the first time in four decades has been thrown into doubt by the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. Airstrikes and retaliatory missile and drone attacks have led several Gulf nations to close their airspace, disrupting travel across the region and leaving the national team’s head coach stranded in the United Arab Emirates.

The situation has also forced the closure of many embassies, raising concerns that players and support staff will be unable to secure the visas required to travel for upcoming matches. Iraq are scheduled to face either Bolivia or Suriname in a playoff in Monterrey, Mexico, on March 31 for a place at this summer’s World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Team management said it remains in close contact with the International Federation of Association Football and the Asian Football Confederation regarding possible arrangements for the playoff amid the deteriorating security situation. If Iraq succeed in qualifying, they will join France, Senegal and Norway in Group I when the tournament begins in June.