Five Iranian national football players flee and seek asylum in Australia
Five players of the Iranian women's football team were granted humanitarian visas and asylum in Australia after being helped by the police to get out of the hotel, where they had been controlled by representatives of the Iranian government during the tournament AFC Women's Asian Cup.
Among those who applied for protection: team captain Zahra Ghanbari, as well as Zahra Sarbali Alisha, Mona Hamoudi, Atefeh Ramazanizadeh and 21-year-old Fatemeh Pasandideh.
Why they fled
The players sought protection, fearing persecution after their team was named «traitors in time of war» for refusing to sing the national anthem before the Asian Cup match.
Australian Federal Police moved the women to a safe place under her protection, They stay there after the issuance of humanitarian visas.
Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese said that these players «safe and can feel at home».
Doors open to others
The Australian government also noted that remains open for other members of the Iranian delegation to apply for asylum, If they decide to apply for it.
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