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President Donald Trump today confirmed that Australia will provide asylum to members of Iran's national women's football team, following urgent appeals and direct discussions with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The announcement comes amid heightened concerns for the safety of the players, who reportedly faced severe risks upon returning to Iran after participating in the Women's Asian Cup in Australia.
Several team members, including five identified individuals, left their team camp and sought protection, citing fears of persecution related to their actions during the tournament such as refusing to sing the national anthem amid ongoing regional conflict.
In a post on Truth Social, President Trump initially urged Prime Minister Albanese to act, stating: “Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Women’s Soccer team to be forced back to Iran, where they will most likely be killed. Don’t do it, Mr. Prime Minister, give ASYLUM. The U.S. will take them if you won’t.”
Following a late-night phone call with the Australian leader, President Trump updated that the matter was being handled effectively. “I just spoke to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, of Australia, concerning the Iranian National Women’s Soccer Team. He’s on it! Five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way,” Trump posted.
The players are now reported to be under the protection of Australian authorities, including the Australian Federal Police, as they pursue asylum claims. This development follows growing international calls from human rights advocates, political figures, and others highlighting the potential dangers the athletes could face due to political tensions and prior expressions of dissent.
President Trump praised the Australian government's response, describing Prime Minister Albanese as “doing a very good job having to deal with this rather delicate situation.”
The United States stands ready to support humanitarian efforts in this case and similar situations, emphasizing the protection of individuals at risk.