Five players from Iran’s women’s national soccer team have been granted asylum in Australia, prompting praise from Israel’s Foreign Ministry for their act of defiance during the Women’s Asian Cup. The team’s silent protest during the national anthem at their opening match against South Korea has drawn international attention, particularly in light of the ongoing political climate surrounding Iran.
In a statement posted on X, Israel commended the players for their “courage,” emphasizing that “sometimes courage is silence.” The message included a call for solidarity, stating, “To the women of Iran’s national soccer team, who refused to sing the regime’s anthem, we applaud your courage! Stay safe. The world is watching.”
The situation escalated following the team’s arrival in Australia in February 2026, coinciding with heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. During the opening match on March 2, 2026, the team stood in silence, an act interpreted by many as a bold gesture of resistance against the Iranian regime. The head coach, Marziyeh Jafari, also remained silent, smiling at her players during this poignant moment.
In subsequent matches against Australia and later opponents, the team sang along with the anthem, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding their earlier silence. As the tournament progressed, concerns grew for the safety of the players, leading the Australian Iranian Council to launch an online petition to protect all members of Iran’s women’s national football team from returning to a potentially dangerous situation.
Following the tournament, Tony Burke, Australia’s Home Affairs Minister, confirmed that five players had been relocated to a safe location by federal police and began the process for their humanitarian visas. Burke stated, “Australia has taken the Iranian women’s soccer team into our hearts,” and assured the remaining team members that similar opportunities for asylum would be available to them.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also expressed support, stating that the United States would “take them” should Australia not grant asylum. This reflects a broader international concern for the welfare of these athletes as they navigate uncertain futures.
The five players who received asylum expressed a desire for their names and images to be shared publicly but clarified that they do not consider themselves political activists. Their relocation followed a tense departure from their hotel in Gold Coast, where protesters attempted to block their team bus. After the remaining members of the team and their coaches arrived at Sydney Airport, police intervened to ensure their safe passage amid protests.
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community remains watchful of the remaining 21 members of Iran’s women’s national soccer team, who face uncertain fates as they decide their next steps. The actions of these athletes have ignited discussions about human rights and freedom of expression, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by women in sports and beyond in Iran.
