Trump urges Australia to grant asylum to Iranian women’s football team
President Donald Trump has urged Australia to provide asylum to Iran’s national women’s football team, declaring the country is committing a “terrible humanitarian mistake” by permitting the players to return home, reports BritPanorama.
Writing on Truth Social, the US president warned that the athletes “will most likely be killed” should they be forced back to Iran. He directly appealed to Australia’s Prime Minister, stating: “Don’t do it, Mr. Prime Minister, give ASYLUM.” Trump added that the U.S. would be willing to accept the women if Australian authorities refused to offer them protection.
The President’s full statement outlined the dire circumstances faced by the players. He said: “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. Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP.”
The controversy surrounding the team’s status escalated last week, as the Iranian squad opted not to perform their national anthem ahead of their opening Asian Cup fixture against South Korea. Their silent protest was met with fierce condemnation in Iran, with state media branding the players “wartime traitors.” The tournament witnessed increased tension, particularly following air strikes by American and Israeli forces in Iran, which resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
The Iranian team’s participation ended with a 2-0 defeat to the Philippines on Sunday. In the lead-up to their second match against Australia, the players sang the anthem and performed a salute, raising concerns among human rights campaigners about possible governmental pressure. FIFPRO, the global players’ union, voiced serious concerns regarding the squad’s welfare on Monday as international scrutiny of their situation intensifies.
Currently located on the Gold Coast in Queensland, the team’s future remains uncertain, with public support for their safety evident through a petition signed by over 66,000 individuals calling for protection. Australian Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Matt Thistlethwaite, declined to comment on the government’s asylum decision, citing privacy considerations.
As the world watches, the intersection of sport and politics comes into sharp relief, reminding us how the plight of athletes can become a focal point in broader international issues.
