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Asian Football Confederation (AFC) president Mohamed Bin Hammam has spoken of his “deep concern” after the postponement of the Iraqi Football Association elections at the weekend.

The elections were postponed after too few delegates travelled to the Kurdish city of Arbil, where Fifa had ordered they take place due to security concerns. Iraq now faces the risk of international expulsion by Fifa.

“The situation in Iraq is of deep concern to AFC and Fifa,” said Bin Hammam. “I hope the issue will be resolved amicably for the good of Iraqi football.”

Fifa has previously twice suspended Iraq for political interference in football, revoking the most recent ban in March on condition of the new elections.

“All parties need to abide by Fifa’s guidelines, which are very clear,” added Bin Hammam. “Politics has no place in football and all stakeholders should work together to take Iraqi football forward.

“The game is a great unifying factor in Iraq. The authorities should take care that its credibility is not destroyed.”