Australia granted asylum to five Iranian women’s soccer players, including captain Zahra Ghanbari, after they fled their hotel and refused to sing Iran’s national anthem, citing safety concerns amid regional tensions.

Australia granted asylum to five members of Iran’s women’s football team, including captain Zahra Ghanbari, after they fled their team hotel on the Gold Coast and refused to sing Iran’s national anthem, sparking fears for their safety amid escalating regional conflict. The players, who were moved to a secure location under federal police protection, received humanitarian visas following secret negotiations and international pressure, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, who urged Australia to act and later praised the decision. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese affirmed their safety and welcome, while Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the offer remains open to the remaining team members, though most are expected to return to Iran. The incident highlighted the risks faced by female athletes in politically unstable regions and drew global attention to their plight.