President Donald Trump removed JD Vance from his role as chief negotiator on Iran policy, a move first disclosed by Marc Thiessen, who said Vance’s refusal to back key decisions triggered his rapid dismissal.
U.S. Soccer withdraws U‑17 team from Qatar World Cup
U.S. Soccer announced the cancellation of its U‑17 World Cup participation in Qatar, citing a Level 3 State Department travel warning and escalating regional hostilities.
The federation’s letter, obtained by Fox News Digital, praised the players and coaches for their preparation while explaining that the pre‑tournament camp and tournament entry were being halted for safety reasons.
“We are extremely proud of the preparation by our players and coaches to represent the US in the World Cup,” the letter read, “but the well‑being of our players and staff will always be our top priority.”
The advisory, issued on Oct. 23, urges Americans to reconsider travel to Qatar because of the risk of armed conflict and potential attacks on civilian infrastructure by Iranian‑backed Houthi forces.
U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel, and non‑emergency personnel were ordered out of Saudi Arabia on the same day, heightening concerns over regional stability.
Fox News Digital reported that an Iranian missile struck Qatar’s Al‑Udeid Air Base in March, though Qatari officials said no injuries occurred.
The withdrawal, made public Wednesday, leaves the American squad without a World Cup chance less than a week after head coach Alex Aldaz announced the 21‑player roster on Nov. 6.
The Americans were slated to open against Montenegro on Nov. 21, face Chile on Nov. 24 and finish Group J against Algeria on Nov. 27.
The roster featured Philadelphia Union forward Malik Jakupovic, who netted eight qualifying goals, and players from clubs such as AC Milan, Ajax and PSV.
U.S. Soccer earned its spot in February by winning its qualifying group in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, beating the hosts 8‑0, St. Kitts and Nevis 10‑0 and drawing 1‑1 with the Dominican Republic.
Nine of the qualifying squad members made the final World Cup roster.
This tournament marks the second edition under FIFA’s expanded 48‑team annual format and the second of five consecutive events awarded to Qatar.
