Five members of the Iranian women’s national football team have been granted humanitarian asylum in Australia following a tense standoff during the Women’s Asian Cup. The players, who were in Australia for the tournament when conflict broke out in their home country, were moved by federal police from their Gold Coast hotel to a secure location early on Tuesday. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that their visas have been finalized, offering them a clear pathway to permanent residency. The decision came after significant international pressure, including public appeals from U.S. President Donald Trump, who urged the Australian government to provide protection to the athletes after they were seen declining to sing their national anthem earlier in the competition.
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
While five players have officially accepted the offer, the Australian government has extended the invitation of asylum to the entire 26-member squad and their coaching staff. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that the safety of the women is the top priority, noting that they are now in a secure environment and should feel at home in Australia. The situation remains delicate as other team members were spotted at the Gold Coast airport, though it is unclear if they intend to return to Iran or seek similar protection. The move marks a significant humanitarian intervention as the regional war continues to displace civilians and high-profile figures alike, highlighting the growing reach of the Middle East conflict into the world of international sports.
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