United States President Donald Trump has called on Australia to grant asylum to the Iranian women’s football team, warning that the US would offer them refuge if Australia refuses
Concerns have grown for the players’ safety after they did not sing Iran’s national anthem before their first match at the Asian Cup in Gold Coast, raising fears of persecution upon returning home.
Normally, the team would have departed after exiting the tournament at the group stage following Sunday’s loss to the Philippines, but reports indicate they remain in Australia.
On Monday, it was reported that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) helped five team members leave the team base and move to a safe house. Neither the AFP nor the Department of Home Affairs has commented on the report.
Trump addressed the situation on Truth Social, writing: “Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Women’s Soccer team to be forced back to Iran, where they will most likely be killed. Don’t do it, Mr. Prime Minister, give asylum. The U.S. will take them if you won’t. Thank you for your attention to this matter. President Donald J. Trump.”
FIFA also confirmed it is in “close contact” with Australian authorities regarding the team, emphasizing that the players’ safety and security are its top priorities. The squad did sing the anthem and salute during their final two matches, but their initial refusal drew criticism from supporters of the Iranian regime.
The tension comes amid broader geopolitical conflict following US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, which prompted retaliatory attacks by Iran on Gulf states housing US military bases. This situation has caused travel and administrative disruptions in the region, affecting Iraq’s preparations for a World Cup play-off match in Mexico on March 31.
Iraq’s coach, Australian Graham Arnold, suggested rescheduling the match against Bolivia or Suriname before the World Cup finals in June. He added that if Iran were to withdraw, Iraq could take their place, with the UAE filling Iraq’s play-off spot.
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