Trump Claims Australia Safeguards Iranian Women Footballers Amid Anthem Controversy

United States President Donald Trump announced that Australia has "taken care of" five members of Iran's women's football team who were at risk of facing punishment upon returning home. The players had refrained from singing their national anthem during their first match at the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 in Queensland, raising concerns about their safety.

Trump, who is currently engaged in a conflict with Iran alongside Israel, stated that he discussed the situation with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Trump emphasized the "delicate situation" and noted that Albanese was actively addressing it. The US president communicated these developments on his Truth Social network, mentioning that five players were already under protection, with others considering returning home due to fears for their families' safety.

Local media reported that the five players had "broken free" after the tournament and were under the protection of the Australian Federal Police, seeking assistance from the government. Australia's SBS News confirmed these reports, adding that Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke traveled to Brisbane to meet with the women. Trump had previously urged Albanese to offer asylum to the team, warning that sending them back to Iran could result in their deaths.

The Iranian team's participation in the tournament coincided with US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, which resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The players' silent stance during the anthem was criticized by Iranian state media as dishonorable. In subsequent matches, the team sang the anthem, raising concerns among human rights advocates about possible coercion by government minders.

The global football players' union FIFPRO expressed serious concerns for the team's welfare, labeling them "wartime traitors" as they prepared to return to Iran. When questioned about the possibility of granting asylum to the players, Australian Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Matt Thistlethwaite stated that the government could not discuss individual cases due to privacy concerns. Both the Australian Federal Police and Queensland Police have declined to comment on the situation.

It remains unclear which team members are seeking asylum in Australia, as the situation continues to develop amid international scrutiny and diplomatic discussions.