Five Iranian Footballers Granted Humanitarian Visas in Australia After Anthem Protest

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Five Iranian women’s national team footballers Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh, and Mona Hamoudi received Australian humanitarian visas after refusing to sing their national anthem. 

Following their Asian Cup exit, the athletes were moved to a safe location by police.

The anthem protest triggered backlash in Iran, where a commentator branded them “wartime traitors”. Concerned for their safety, supporters on the Gold Coast surrounded the team’s bus, chanting “save our girls” to prevent their return home.

Immigration Minister Tony Burke emphasized that the players are athletes seeking safety rather than political activists. The granted visas provide permanent protection, allowing the women to live, work, and study within Australia.

Regarding their intentions, Minister Burke stated, “They want to be clear they are not political activists. They are athletes who want to be safe”. He noted that the same opportunity remains available to the rest of the squad.

The case drew remarks from US President Donald Trump, who encouraged asylum and later confirmed he spoke with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese about the situation. However, some players reportedly feel they must return to Iran due to fears for their families.

While Australia has protected these players, the US has recently paused most asylum processing for Iranian citizens. This follows the deportation of several Iranian groups from the US last year, including vulnerable LGBT individuals.