Iranian Footballers Granted Asylum in Australia Amidst Protests

Five members of the Iranian women’s national football team have been granted asylum in Australia, following fears of persecution upon their return to Iran. The decision comes after the players escaped their handlers at a Gold Coast hotel with assistance from the Australian Federal Police, and after refusing to sing the national anthem at the Asian Cup in Queensland.

Asylum Granted After Anthem Protest

The players were labeled as “traitors” after declining to sing the Iranian national anthem during the Asian Cup tournament, raising concerns for their safety if they were to return home CBS News. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke approved their application for humanitarian visas overnight, stating they are now “welcome to stay in Australia, to be safe and have a home here” 9News.

Protests at Hotel and Airport

As the team prepared to depart from the Gold Coast airport, protesters attempted to block their bus, chanting “save our girls” 9News. Supporters briefly stood in the path of the vehicle, and some team members reportedly attempted to prevent one player from boarding. Police intervened to allow the bus, escorted by law enforcement, to continue to the airport 9News.

Political Reactions

Former U.S. President Donald Trump praised Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for handling the situation, stating that the remaining players were too “on their way” to being taken care of AP News. He also noted that some players expressed a desire to return to Iran due to concerns for their families’ safety AP News.

Background: Asian Cup and War Context

The Iranian women’s team was in Australia participating in the Asian Cup tournament when the current conflict in Iran began AP News. The players who have been granted asylum are now under police protection.