Iranian presenter labels women’s national football team as ‘traitors’
An Iranian state television presenter has condemned the women’s national football team as “wartime traitors” following their refusal to sing the national anthem at the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia, reports BritPanorama.
Mohammad Reza Shahbazi, who is associated with Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, criticized the players for what he described as a profound lack of patriotism after they remained silent during the anthem before their opening match against South Korea on Monday.
“Let me just say one thing: traitors during wartime must be dealt with more severely,” Shahbazi stated, a denunciation that has quickly circulated across various social media platforms. He referred to their actions as the “pinnacle of dishonour.”
The squad is competing in the continental tournament amid escalating military conflict back home. Over the weekend, air strikes by American and Israeli forces resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In their initial game, Iran suffered a 3-0 defeat to South Korea, followed by a 4-0 loss to host nation Australia three days later. Interestingly, the team altered their approach for the second match by choosing to sing and salute during the anthem before facing Australia.
As the situation continues to deteriorate in Iran, the players remain in Australia. FIFPRO, the players’ union, has raised concerns regarding their safety, urging both the Asian Football Confederation and FIFA to uphold their human rights obligations. They stated, “These statements significantly heighten concerns for the players’ safety should they return to Iran after the tournament.”
FIFPRO has called for urgent dialogue among football authorities, the Iranian Football Association, and the Australian Government to ensure protective measures for the team. Reuters has attempted to reach the AFC and Iran Football Federation for comments, but responses have not yet been received.
Ahead of the match against Australia, concerns about their families back home weighed heavily on the players. Iranian forward Sara Didar expressed her emotional struggle with the ongoing conflict, while coach Marziyeh Jafari acknowledged the difficulty of focusing on the tournament amidst such distress. The emotional toll on the squad has been palpable throughout their campaign in Australia.
Iran’s upcoming group stage match against the Philippines on Sunday looms ahead, with uncertainty surrounding the players’ futures given the volatile situation awaiting them back home.
