Trump to Australia: Grant Asylum to Iranian Women’s Soccer Team or U.S. Will

U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Australia to grant asylum to members of Iran’s women’s national soccer team, warning they could face severe punishment or even death if forced to return to Iran.

Trump made the appeal in a social media post on Monday, criticizing the Australian government over reports that the players could be required to return home after participating in the Women’s Asian Cup tournament hosted in Australia.

“Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Woman’s Soccer team to be forced back to Iran, where they will most likely be killed,” Trump wrote, adding that the United States would be willing to accept the players if Australia declined to offer protection.

The controversy erupted after members of the Iranian team declined to sing their country’s national anthem before their opening match against South Korea, a move widely interpreted as a silent protest against the Iranian government. Iranian state media later condemned the players, branding them “traitors,” which raised fears of retaliation once they return home.

Human rights activists and sports organizations have since called on Australian authorities to ensure the players’ safety and allow them the option of applying for asylum. The global footballers’ union FIFPRO has also expressed concern about the potential consequences the players could face in Iran.

Adding to the tension, reports emerged that at least five members of the Iranian squad have left their team accommodation on Australia’s Gold Coast and are seeking refuge, with local authorities reportedly providing protection while their situation is assessed.

Australia’s government has not confirmed whether it will grant asylum to the athletes. Officials have declined to comment directly on the matter, citing privacy considerations, but the issue has sparked growing international pressure on Canberra to provide protection.

The situation highlights the broader political tensions surrounding Iran and the risks faced by athletes who publicly or symbolically challenge the country’s authorities.