Donald Trump has called on Australia to grant asylum to members of Iran women’s national football team, warning the players could face danger if they return home after refusing to sing their country’s national anthem.
Trump said he had discussed the issue with Anthony Albanese, revealing the conversation in a post on his Truth Social platform on Monday.
According to Trump, the Australian leader was already addressing the situation involving the players, some of whom are reportedly seeking protection.
“I just spoke to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, of Australia, concerning the Iranian National Women’s Soccer Team,” Trump wrote.
“He’s on it! Five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way.”
The players sparked controversy during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup after standing in silence and refusing to sing Iran’s national anthem before their opening Group A match against South Korea women’s national football team on March 2.
The team were grouped alongside Australia women’s national soccer team, South Korea and the Philippines women’s national football team in the tournament.
Their protest drew anger from some figures in Iran, with reports of calls for punishment against the players. After the team’s elimination from the tournament, supporters reportedly surrounded their bus in Australia, urging them to remain in the country amid fears they could face reprisals if they returned home.
Trump said some players were reluctant to stay abroad because of concerns about threats to their families in Iran.
“Some, however, feel they must go back because they are worried about the safety of their families, including threats to those family members if they don’t return,” he wrote.
The situation comes amid rising tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel, with hostilities escalating since February 28.
The crisis has also raised questions about Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Observers say the fate of the players could become a sensitive diplomatic issue as the tournament approaches.
