Australia grants asylum to five Iranian women footballers

Australia has granted humanitarian visas to five players from Iran’s women’s national football team who sought asylum after fearing for their lives if they returned home. The reason was their refusal to sing the Iranian national anthem before an Asian Cup match, for which they were labelled ‘war traitors’ by Iranian state media.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that the players are safe in Australia and are being kept in a secret location under police protection.

According to the government, Australia held secret talks with them for several days and their escape was a very difficult decision. Canberra also says help is available to other members of the team, but it is up to them whether they accept it.

US President Donald Trump also commented on the situation, initially criticising Australia and offering to accept the players into the United States. Later, after a phone call with Albanese, he praised Australia’s move.

The Iranian team is in Australia for the Asian Cup. Concerns about the players’ safety arose after they were sharply criticised in Iran for a silent protest before the first match of the tournament.

(reuters, lud)