Iranian Women Footballers Granted Asylum In Australia

Iranian Women Footballers Granted Asylum In Australia

Five members of Iran’s women’s national football team have been granted humanitarian visas by the Australian government after fears they could face persecution if forced to return home.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the decision on Tuesday, revealing he had held an early-morning phone call with Donald Trump as the situation surrounding the players drew international attention.

The athletes had been competing in the AFC Women's Asian Cup in Australia when concerns emerged over their safety.

Anthem Protest Sparks Fears

The controversy began when several Iranian players stood silent during the national anthem before their opening match — a gesture widely interpreted as a protest against the regime in Iran.

Supporters and activists warned the women could face severe punishment upon returning home.

Sports journalist Raha Pourbakhsh said at least seven players left the team hotel following the incident, with five of them seeking protection from Australian authorities.

Their families inside Iran were reportedly threatened after the protest.

Players Moved To Safe Location

Albanese said the Australian government had been working behind the scenes to secure the players’ safety.

Officials confirmed the five athletes had been moved to a secure location after requesting assistance, and the offer of protection has been extended to other members of the squad.

“If they want our help, help is here,” the prime minister said.

Trump Intervenes

Trump publicly urged Australia to protect the team, warning it would be a “terrible humanitarian mistake” if the players were sent back to Iran.

He later said he had spoken with Albanese and claimed several players had already been “taken care of”.

Tehran Dismisses Claims

Iranian officials rejected suggestions the players were in danger.

First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref accused Trump of interfering in Iran’s internal affairs and dismissed the controversy as “psychological warfare”.

State media said the government would welcome the players home and guarantee their safety.

Global Concern

The situation has drawn attention from international organisations including FIFA, which said the safety of the Iranian women’s team remained its priority.

Meanwhile exiled Iranian figure Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s former shah, warned the athletes could face “dire consequences” if they returned to the country.

For now, five members of the team are safe in Australia — but uncertainty remains over the fate of other players as political tensions surrounding Iran continue to intensify.

SOURCE