Australia offers protection to five Iranian women footballers

Australia has agreed to provide visas to five members of the Iranian women’s national football team, allowing them to remain in the country amid concerns they could face punishment if they return to Iran.

Australian Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke announced the decision at a news conference on March 9, saying he had personally informed the players of the government’s offer of protection, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

“I had informed the five members that they are welcome to stay in Australia, that they are safe here, and they should feel at home here,” Burke said.

Last night I was able to tell five women from the Iranian Women’s Soccer team that they are welcome to stay in Australia, to be safe and have a home here. pic.twitter.com/2JQp9q9Z8W

— Tony Burke (@Tony_Burke) March 9, 2026

The Department of Home Affairs identified the players as team captain Zahra Ghanbari, midfielders Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Sarbali Alishah and Mona Hamoudi, and defender Atefeh Ramezanizadeh.

The Iranian women’s team is currently in Australia to compete in the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Queensland. Burke said the remaining players are staying at a hotel on the Gold Coast and confirmed that they have also been offered the opportunity to remain in Australia.

The controversy emerged after the players stood in silence during Iran’s national anthem before their opening match against South Korea at the tournament. The act drew criticism from a commentator on Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB, who described it as the “pinnacle of dishonour”.

The visa decision followed comments by United States President Donald Trump, who said he had discussed the situation with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Trump said the players could face risks if they returned home.

“Five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way. Some, however, feel they must go back because they are worried about the safety of their families, including threats to those family members if they don’t return,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform.

By Sabina Mammadli