Iranian monarchist groups are voicing anger over reports that FIFA intends to ban the so-called Lion and Sun flag, often used as a symbol of resistance to the theocratic rule that took over the country in 1979. The soccer association says the flag is a "political" symbol and is therefore forbidden.

Members of the Iranian diaspora have in the past displayed the flag at sporting events as a means to protest the regime in Tehran

Iran Is Set to Participate in the World Cup in the United States, With Its Team Expected to Play Two Games in Los Angeles, Which Is Home to the World's Largest Iranian Expatriate…