Australia Grants Asylum To Five Iranian Women Footballers After Anthem Protest At Asian Cup

Five members of Iran’s women’s national football team have been allowed to remain in Australia after the government approved humanitarian visas for them following their exit from the Asian Cup.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the decision on Tuesday, saying the move was made amid fears the players could face consequences if they returned to Iran.

“Australians have been moved by the plight of these brave women. They’re safe here and they should feel at home here.”

Concerns about the players’ safety emerged after they declined to sing their national anthem before their opening match at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, a tournament currently being staged in Australia.

The situation drew global attention, including from Donald Trump, who urged Australian authorities to intervene. Trump had earlier warned that allowing the athletes to return to Iran would be a “terrible humanitarian mistake.”

Albanese disclosed that he spoke with Trump earlier on Tuesday and described the conversation as productive. After the visas were approved, Trump later praised the decision in a follow-up message on social media.

The Australian leader also indicated that other members of the Iranian squad could receive assistance if they request it, stressing that the matter remains sensitive and any further steps would depend on the choices of the individuals involved.