Iran’s players react during their national anthem before the Women’s Asian Cup match. (AP photo)) Five members of Iran’s women’s soccer team have been granted asylum in Australia after conflict erupted in their home country during their stay at the Women’s Asian Cup, Australian authorities confirmed on Tuesday.Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the players were moved from their hotel on the Gold Coast early Tuesday by federal police after formally requesting protection. They were taken to a safe place where their humanitarian visas were processed and approved.
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Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SIGN UP NOW!Burke described the moment as emotional for the athletes, who expressed relief after being granted asylum. “I don’t want to imagine how difficult this decision is for each individual woman,” he told reporters in Brisbane. “It was a joy and a relief last night. People were very excited to start life in Australia.”The Iranian squad arrived in Australia last month for the Women’s Asian Cup, but the outbreak of war in Iran on February 28 left them facing an uncertain return to the bombed country. During the tournament, the team attracted attention when several players remained silent during the national anthem before their opening match against South Korea, prompting speculation in Australia whether it was a protest or a sign of mourning.Australia has extended an offer of asylum to the entire squad of 26 players and staff, but only five have been accepted so far. Officials said that option remains open to others who want to apply for protection.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government had acted cautiously to ensure the athletes’ safety without putting their families at risk. The decision followed public appeals from Iranian diaspora groups and comments from US President Donald Trump, who urged Australia to provide protection.The athletes are now safe in Australia and will be supported as they begin a new chapter, while the future of the remaining team members remains uncertain.
