Iran has banned national and club sports teams from travelling to countries it considers hostile until further notice, Iranian media has reported citing the Sports Ministry, which said the move was due to concerns over the safety of Iranian athletes, according to Reuters.

“The presence of national and club teams in countries considered hostile and unable to ensure the security of Iranian athletes and team members is prohibited until further notice,” the ministry said.

The ministry has added that the football federation and clubs are required to notify the Asian Football Confederation of the relocation of match venues.