PLDC - U.S. President Donald Trump called on Australia to grant asylum to members of the Iran women’s national football team, warning they could face serious danger if forced to return to Iran.
The issue arose during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia, where Iranian players refused to sing the national anthem before their first match against South Korea. Some commentators in Iran later labeled them “wartime traitors.”
Trump said Australia would be making a “terrible humanitarian mistake” by sending the players back and added that the United States would accept them if Australia did not.
Players’ union FIFPRO also raised concerns about the team’s safety. Meanwhile, a petition signed by more than 66,000 people has urged the Australian government to ensure the players are protected.
Iran’s head coach Marziyeh Jafari said the team is eager to return home, while Australian officials declined to comment on possible asylum requests due to privacy rules.
