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Iranian team member withdraws asylum request
One of two Iranian women's football delegation members who initially chose to remain in Australia has changed her mind after speaking with departing teammates, Immigration Minister Tony Burke announced on Wednesday.
Timeline of events
The player and a support staff member, Mohaddeseh Zolfi and Zahra Soltan Meshkeh Kar, were separated from the squad on the Gold Coast after expressing a desire to stay. They were later taken to a Brisbane police facility for safety.
The remaining team members left Australia on Tuesday night, two days after their Asian Cup elimination. Five players had already been granted humanitarian visas over safety concerns.
Minister confirms decision reversal
Burke told parliament the individual reconsidered after consulting teammates who had already departed. He emphasized Australia's respect for her choice but noted she was advised to contact the Iranian embassy, which compromised the location of others seeking asylum.
"In Australia, people are able to change their mind. We respect the context in which she had made that decision."
Tony Burke, Australian Immigration Minister
Burke ordered the immediate relocation of the remaining asylum seekers to protect their safety.
Asylum process and airport interventions
All women who chose to stay were fast-tracked for permanent residency. Burke revealed officials made "multiple representations" to the team at Sydney Airport, offering private meetings with translators and the option to call family. None accepted, though one boarded the flight late after family discussions.
A small number of the delegation-believed to be Iranian government minders-were not offered asylum. Burke stated, "There are some leaving Australia who I am glad are not in Australia."
Safety concerns and international reactions
The team's refusal to sing Iran's national anthem before a match against South Korea sparked fears for their safety. Critics allege they were coerced into singing in later games under government supervision.
US President Donald Trump weighed in on Truth Social, urging Australia to grant asylum or promising the US would take them. He later claimed five were "taken care of" after speaking with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Australian Prime Minister Albanese called the women "brave" and assured they would be safe in Australia, where they had gained public support.
Protests and previous incidents
Activists temporarily blocked the team's bus on the Gold Coast, waving the pre-revolution Lion and Sun flag. The five initial asylum seekers-Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh, and Mona Hamoudi-were moved to a secure location after minders attempted to locate them.
Burke clarified the women are athletes, not activists, seeking safety. Iran's state media labeled dissenters "wartime traitors," demanding harsh punishment.
