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Action between Thailand and the Philippines at the AVC Men's Nations Cup in Bahrain. Photo from Asian Volleyball Confederation
MANILA, Philippines – The AVC Men’s Nations Cup 2025 will resume action after host nation Bahrain assured the safety of the players amid “escalation of tensions” between the United States and Iran.
In a press release, the AVC said that it initially opted to postpone the final between the host country and Pakistan scheduled for 7 p.m. (Bahrain time) after tensions escalated after the US bombed nuclear facilities in Iran.
READ: Iran retaliates against US strikes, targets Qatar base; Filipinos advised to shelter in place
Bahrain capital Manama is situated close to Al Udeid, a US airbase in Qatar, said to the staging area for the US B-52 stealth bombers which targeted nuclear facilities in Iran.
But after the guarantees provided by the host, AVC president Ramon “Tats” Suzara decided to play the final.
READ: Trump says Israel and Iran agree to 'total ceasefire'
“Following consultations with the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Bahrain Volleyball Association, the AVC has decided to proceed with the Finals today [Tuesday] as scheduled, the AVC said in a statement.
US President Donald Trump also said a ceasefire between Iran and Israel was in force on Tuesday, urging both sides to "not violate it."
Alas Pilipinas Men were ready to fly home when the AVC decided to continue the tournament. They are scheduled to face New Zealand at 5 p.m. (Bahrain time) Tuesday.
--with a report from Agence France-Presse
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