Several members of Iran’s women’s football team have asked for asylum in Australia during the ongoing tournament there. They said they fear punishment if they return to Iran.
Australian authorities have now given asylum to seven members of the Iranian delegation. This group includes players and support staff. The decision came after the athletes spoke with officials and explained their concerns about safety if they go back home.
The issue began after some Iranian players reportedly did not sing the national anthem before a match in the tournament. Iranian state media later criticised them and called them “traitors”. This raised fears that the players might face punishment from authorities in Iran after returning.
Soon after this, five members of the team left their camp in Australia and asked the Australian government for protection. Later, two more members of the delegation also requested asylum. After interviews and checks, Australia agreed to give them humanitarian visas.
Australia’s Home Affairs Minister said the players were interviewed individually and were free to make their own decision. He said no pressure was placed on them either by the Australian government or their team officials. The players who received protection will be allowed to stay in Australia and may later apply for permanent residency. They will also get support such as language classes, help finding jobs and access to education.
However, one player who first asked for asylum later changed her mind. She contacted the Iranian embassy and decided to return to Iran. Reports said her decision revealed the location of the other players, so authorities moved the remaining group to a safer place.
The incident has also created tension between Iran and Australia. Iranian officials accused Australia of holding the players “hostage”. Australia strongly denied this and said the athletes made their decisions freely.
Most members of the Iranian team have now left Australia and travelled to Malaysia as part of the tournament schedule. But the players who received asylum will remain in Australia under government protection.
