Trump Calls for Asylum for Iranian Women’s National Team After World Cup Exit

Jakarta – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly voiced concern over the fate of the Iranian Women’s National Team following their elimination from the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup. Trump is urging Australia to grant asylum to the players, citing fears of persecution upon their return to Iran. The situation has escalated amid reports of players signaling for facilitate and a growing number seeking refuge in Australia.

Iran was eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup, finishing last in Group A after a 2-0 loss to the Philippines on March 8th. The team’s struggles on the field are now overshadowed by concerns for their safety and well-being.

Distress Signals and Allegations of ‘Betrayal’

A particularly poignant moment following the match against the Philippines saw an Iranian player reportedly signaling for help from the team bus, making a gesture interpreted as a plea for assistance. This followed a controversial decision by the team to refrain from singing the national anthem during their opening match against South Korea – an act deemed “treacherous” by the Iranian regime, according to reports.

The situation intensified on Monday, March 9th, when five players – Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh, and Mona Hamoudi – reportedly left the team’s training camp seeking asylum in Australia. They have been taken to a safe house by Australian Federal Police although their visa applications are processed.

Trump’s Intervention and U.S.-Iran Tensions

The plight of the remaining Iranian players has drawn the attention of Donald Trump, who took to social media platform X to call on Australia to offer protection. “Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake if it allows the Iran Woman’s football team to be forced back to Iran,” Trump wrote. “They will most likely be killed. Don’t do it, Prime Minister (Anthony Albanese), give them asylum. The U.S. Will take them if you don’t. Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP.”

🚨🇦🇺 BREAKING: President Trump says Australia is “making a terrible humanitarian mistake” if it allows the Iran Woman’s football team to be forced back to Iran

“They will most likely be killed” pic.twitter.com/TfAkiwRavw

— Politics Global (@PolitlcsGlobal) March 9, 2026

This intervention comes against a backdrop of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. Reports indicate ongoing military conflict, with the U.S. Conducting what is being called “Operation Epic Fury,” resulting in the deaths of key Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The timing of Trump’s statement underscores the complex geopolitical factors influencing the situation.

Australia Responds, Offers Asylum to Five Players

Responding to the escalating crisis and Trump’s direct appeal, the Australian government has officially granted humanitarian asylum to the five players who sought refuge. The players were moved from their hotel on the Gold Coast to a secure location by Australian Federal Police before finalizing their visa arrangements.

According to reports, Australian Minister Burke stated, “Australia has taken the Iranian women’s national team to our hearts,” and added that “the same opportunity is available to other members of the team.” This suggests that Australia is open to providing asylum to any additional players who wish to remain in the country.

The decision by Australia reflects a growing international concern for the safety of the Iranian team members. The players who remain face the prospect of severe punishment and persecution if they return to Iran, given their protest during the national anthem and the subsequent attempts by some to seek asylum.

The situation highlights the broader challenges faced by female athletes in Iran, where political and social restrictions often impact their ability to compete freely and safely. The Iranian team’s actions at the Women’s Asian Cup have brought these issues to the forefront, sparking a global conversation about human rights and the protection of athletes.

As the remaining players grapple with an uncertain future, the international community continues to watch closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes their safety and well-being. The next steps for the team remain unclear, but the offer of asylum by Australia provides a glimmer of hope for those seeking refuge.

(bay/raw)