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Iran women's soccer team granted asylum in Queensland
32 articles |
Updated 5d ago |
Created 6d ago
Australia has officially confirmed that five members of the Iranian national football squad have been issued humanitarian visas to avoid persecution for refusing to sing their country's anthem at a recent Asian Cup match in Qatar, according Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke on Tuesday morning (Mar 09). The women reportedly fled from hotel rooms and sought protection directly with Queensland police after being warned they would be killed by Iranian authorities if returned home.
Key Points
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1Australia has granted humanitarian visas and asylum to five members of Iran's women's soccer team who escaped their handlers in Gold Coast.
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2The players sought protection after refusing to sing the Iranian national anthem at an Asian Cup game, fearing persecution for this act.
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3US President Donald Trump praised Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on a late-night call regarding Australia's intervention and asylum offer.
Developments
[Mar 09]
"Australia has granted humanitarian visas to five members of the Iranian women's soccer team who were transported from their hotel in Gold Coast."
[Mar 09, ~21:35] (inferred)
'He's on it!' Donald Trump backs Anthony Albanese after warning girls will be killed.