Seven members of Iran’s women’s national football team were granted humanitarian visas in Australia after refusing to sing their national anthem during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
Australian authorities offered asylum to all players before their departure from Sydney, but most chose to return to Iran. After emotional discussions at Sydney Airport, seven women initially accepted protection visas allowing them to remain permanently in Australia.
However, Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke later confirmed that one of the seven changed her mind and requested to return to Iran after contacting the Iranian embassy. Following the development, the remaining six women were moved to a secure location for safety.
The issue gained international attention after the players remained silent during Iran’s national anthem in their opening match at the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, which many interpreted as a protest against the Iranian government. The controversy intensified when Donald Trump urged Australia to grant asylum to the players, saying they could face risks if they returned home.
Iranian authorities rejected the concerns. First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref said the players would be welcomed safely in Iran.
The team has since traveled from Australia to Kuala Lumpur and is expected to continue its journey back to Iran.
