Seven Iranian Women’s Football Players Granted Asylum in Australia
Sydney, Australia – Seven members of the Iranian women’s national football team have been granted humanitarian visas in Australia, following concerns for their safety after they faced criticism for not singing the national anthem during recent matches. The Australian government confirmed the latest two visas were approved on Tuesday, bringing the total number of players and staff granted asylum to seven.
The team was in Australia for the Asian Cup when tensions escalated between Iran and the US and Israel just over a week ago. The players’ plight drew international attention, with many fearing repercussions upon their return to Iran.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the decision, stating that security assessments were conducted before visas were granted. He noted that not all applicants were approved, and some individuals who departed Australia were doing so willingly. “There is a reason why some people were not made a direct offer [to stay]. There were some people leaving Australia who I am glad are no longer in Australia,” Burke told reporters, without providing further details.
The players reportedly faced criticism on Iranian television, with one commentator labeling their silence during the anthem as “the pinnacle of dishonor,” according to Reuters. The incident occurred two days after the attacks began.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, “Australians have been moved by the plight of these brave women. They are safe here and they should feel at home here.”
The Australian government had been under increasing pressure to offer protection to the team after they were eliminated from the tournament. Supporters demonstrated outside the team’s hotel and at the airport, urging authorities to ensure the players’ safety. Some supporters reported seeing players making a hand signal for help as they departed.
Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi, speaking from the US, said he had been informed that five of the women were now in a “safe location.” He emphasized the “ongoing threat” the team faced due to their “brave act” of refusing to sing the national anthem.
The seven individuals granted asylum are now on a pathway to secure permanent visas in Australia, according to Minister Burke.
The case highlights the risks faced by athletes and citizens in Iran amid heightened political tensions. The Australian Iranian Council had also launched a petition calling for the government to protect the players.
