Australia Grants Asylum After Iranian Women Footballers Branded Traitors, Forced Into Fearful Silence
At the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Queensland, the Iranian women’s team stood silent before facing South Korea, refusing their anthem as protest after US-Israel airstrikes devastated Iran, killing 1,255+ people, including Khamenei.
IRIB called the silence the “pinnacle of dishonour.” Before facing Australia, players sang and saluted, raising fears of coercion as human rights groups warned they were pressured by government minders escorting them across Australia.
After elimination following defeat to the Philippines, Iranian media branded players “wartime traitors.” FIFPRO warned about serious safety risks, fearing harsh punishment awaited them once they returned to Iran.
US President Donald Trump urged Anthony Albanese to grant asylum, warning return meant a “terrible humanitarian mistake” and possible death. Albanese confirmed a “very positive” call, saying protective action was already underway.
5 players — Zahra Ghanbari, Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Sarbali Alishah, Mona Hamoudi, Atefeh Ramezanizadeh — secretly left the Gold Coast hotel with Australian police; Fars News confirmed their covert departure while teammates remained.
Tony Burke announced the 5 players received visas: “They are safe in Australia.” Elijah Buol called it compassionate but urged attention for other Iranian asylum seekers still stuck in uncertainty.
