politics
March 9, 2026
Trump praises Australian leader for taking in Iran's women soccer players
President Donald Trump said on Monday he spoke with Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who has agreed to grant the Iranian national women’s soccer team.
TL;DR
- Five Iranian national women's soccer players have been granted asylum in Australia.
- President Donald Trump spoke with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese about the situation.
- Some players are choosing to return to Iran due to concerns for their families' safety.
- The players' protest occurred during the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup after refusing to sing their national anthem.
- Iranian state media labeled the players as "wartime traitors," raising fears of repercussions.
- The five players who sought refuge are Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh, and Mona Hamoudi.
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