Iranian women footballers granted asylum in Australia after anthem protest

Seven members of the Iranian women’s football team have been granted humanitarian visas in Australia after their elimination from the Asian Cup this weekend.

Authorities said the players were moved to a safe location after concerns were raised about their safety if they returned to Iran.

“The team on the field refused to sing the Iranian anthem," explains Primedia digital editor Barbara Friedman, adding that a video of that moment subsequently went viral.

The move was widely seen as a protest against the way in which women are treated in Iran, and sparked backlash from some conservative voices in that country, with some calling the women 'wartime traitors' and calling for their harsh punishment.

“Seven members have been granted humanitarian visas and five players were early granted asylum over fears for their safety should they return to Iran."

Tony Burke, Australia’s immigration minister, said the players were assisted by police and taken to a safe location.

Other members of the squad have also reportedly been told they are welcome to remain in the country if they wish.

“Another young woman changed her mind. I thought that was interesting. She was ready to accept and then changed her mind... and she wants to go back to Iran."

The story has quickly become one of the most widely discussed global trends online.