Five members of Iran’s women’s national soccer team have received humanitarian visas from Australia after fears they could face persecution at home. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the decision Tuesday after speaking with U.S. President Donald Trump, who had urged protection for the players.
The controversy began during the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia when Iranian players stood silently during their national anthem before their opening match. The gesture was widely interpreted as a protest against Iran’s government. Supporters and human rights advocates warned the players could face punishment if they returned home.
Australia granted humanitarian visas to five Iranian women's soccer team players after they sought asylum fearing persecution in their home nation https://t.co/yM30lMBb3N pic.twitter.com/AT0c1buBt3
— Reuters (@Reuters) March 10, 2026
Sports journalist Raha Pourbakhsh reported that several players left the team hotel, with five applying for asylum through the Australian Federal Police. Families of some players were reportedly threatened.
Trump said on Truth Social that the United States would offer asylum if Australia refused assistance.
Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref dismissed the situation as psychological warfare and insisted the players would be safe returning home.
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TIPP Staff
