Australia grants asylum to five Iranian women footballers Australian authorities have granted asylum to five members of Iran’s women’s football team, allowing them to remain in the country after they faced potential punishment for refusing to sing the national anthem before their first match at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026. The decision came amid heightened tensions between Iran and its regional rivals, with the team’s actions sparking international concern over the safety of athletes in conflict zones. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that the five players—captain Zahra Ghanbari, midfielders Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Sarbali Alishah, Mona Hamoudi, and defender Atefeh Ramezanizadeh—had been provided with visas to stay in Australia. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that the players were “safe here” and encouraged them to “feel at home.” The remaining members of the team, who are currently in a hotel on the Gold Coast, were also offered the option to seek asylum, though some opted to return to Iran due to fears for their families’ safety. The players’ decision to remain silent during Iran’s national anthem before their match against South Korea was condemned as “the pinnacle of dishonour” by a commentator on Iran’s state broadcaster. This act of defiance followed Iran’s military escalation with the United States and Israel, which began on February 28 with air strikes targeting Iran’s leadership. The team’s participation in the tournament coincided with the ongoing conflict, raising questions about the safety of athletes in the region. U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been actively involved in the conflict with Iran, praised Australia’s decision, calling it a “compassionate and practical step” to protect the players.#iran #australia #anthony_albanese #tony_burke #fifpro
