Australian government urged to protect Iran football players after national anthem backflip

March 6, 2026

TL;DR

Iranian state-aligned commentator described the Iran women's national team players as 'wartime traitors' and called for them to be 'dealt with more severely'.
The players are currently in Australia for the Women's Asian Cup and are due to return home after their final match.
Footage emerged showing an Iranian state television presenter accusing the team of dishonor for not singing the national anthem before their first match.
In a subsequent match, the Iran players sang the anthem and saluted.
Refugee Council chief executive Paul Power stated that the players appear to be at risk if returned to Iran, citing past dire consequences for peaceful protesters.
A German-based Iranian journalist has called on the Australian government to afford the team protection, highlighting that 'treason' is a capital offense in Iran.
Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong expressed that the government 'stands with the brave people of Iran' and has called on the Iranian regime to protect its people and allow freedom of expression.

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