Iran Womens Soccer Captain Withdraws Asylum Bid in Australia

Five members of the Iranian women’s football team have withdrawn their asylum applications in Australia, according to reports from state media. Zahra Ghanbari, the team captain, has decided to return to Iran and will depart from Malaysia shortly.

Ghanbari joins three other players and one backroom staff member who had previously withdrawn their bids for asylum. The group had traveled to Malaysia from Australia after participating in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that the country had offered asylum to all players and support staff members prior to their departure, citing concerns about potential punishment upon return to Iran due to the team’s refusal to sing the national anthem during the tournament.

Prior to departing for Malaysia, three of the players had reportedly given up on their asylum applications. The news was confirmed by Burke, who stated that the players were given repeated chances to discuss their options before making their decision.

Five players initially signed immigration papers in Australia last week, with one more player and a member of staff joining them the following day. Two Iranian players remain in Australia, where they have been promised asylum and an opportunity to settle.

The team’s participation in the Asian Cup was marked by controversy, including the refusal to sing the national anthem during their first match. The incident sparked backlash from Iranian media, with some labeling the players “traitors.”

Source: Al Jazeera