Post by : Shakul

Australia has granted humanitarian visas to five members of the Iranian women’s national football team after they sought asylum during a tournament in the country. The decision was confirmed by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who said the athletes were moved to a secure location before their applications were processed.

The players were part of Iran’s squad participating in the Women’s Asian Cup matches held on the Gold Coast. They had drawn attention after refusing to sing Iran’s national anthem before their opening match against South Korea on March 2. Shortly afterward, Iranian state television labelled the players “traitors,” sparking fears that they could face punishment if they returned to Iran.

According to Australian officials, the five footballers contacted authorities and expressed a desire to remain in Australia. After slipping away from team minders, they were escorted by the Australian Federal Police and Queensland Police to a safe location. Their applications for temporary humanitarian visas were approved in the early hours of the morning after security checks were completed.

The players identified as seeking asylum are Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh and Mona Hamoudi. Officials said the athletes had been under intense pressure after Iranian state media figures publicly criticised them and called for strong action against those refusing to sing the national anthem during a time of conflict.

Iranian law treats acts considered treason or corruption very seriously, with penalties that can include lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty. Human rights advocates therefore raised concerns about the safety of the players if they returned to the country.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government had been preparing quietly to support the athletes if they chose to seek asylum. Officials deliberately avoided public discussion during the process to ensure the players could communicate safely with authorities.

Opposition leaders in Australia also supported the decision, praising the women for their courage. Government representatives said the offer of assistance remains open to other members of the Iranian team who may wish to seek protection.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Iranian squad left their hotel under heavy police escort and travelled to the airport. It remains unclear whether additional players will request asylum, as some may fear repercussions for their families back home in Iran.

#Sports News #Asia News