Donald Trump issues statement amid fears Iran women’s football team could ‘face death penalty’
Five members of Iran’s women’s national football team have been granted visas to remain in Australia after concerns emerged about their safety following an international tournament.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the players were moved to a secure location after requesting assistance, according to Sky News.
“Australians have been moved by the plight of these brave women. They are safe here and they should feel at home here,” Albanese said.
“Once it was made clear these women wanted assistance, the Australian federal police moved them to a safe location where they remain.”
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The development followed growing international attention around the team after their participation in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, which was held in Australia last week.
Tournament and protest
Iran’s squad finished at the bottom of Group A after losses to Australia, South Korea and the Philippines.
However, attention soon shifted from the tournament results to the players’ actions before their opening match.
According to ESPN, members of the team did not sing Iran’s national anthem, a gesture that raised concerns about possible repercussions if they returned home.
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The outlet reported that there were fears “the team could face persecution” upon returning to Iran.
Trump urges protection
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also weighed in on the situation, urging Australian authorities to offer the players asylum.
Writing on Truth Social, Trump said:
“Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Woman's Soccer team to be forced back to Iran, where they will most likely be killed.
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“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.”
Trump later praised Albanese after reports that several players had been granted permission to stay in Australia.
“He's on it! Five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way,” Trump wrote.
“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.”
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The situation has highlighted broader concerns about the risks athletes may face after making political gestures while competing internationally.
Sources: ESPN, Sky News
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