Australia has granted asylum to five members of Iran's women's football team after concerns they could face persecution upon returning home. The decision was confirmed by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who said the players had been moved to a safe location by the Australian Federal Police before their humanitarian visas were approved overnight.

The move followed public pressure from United States President Donald Trump, who urged Australia to act and offered to accept the players if it did not. Trump later praised Prime Minister Anthony Albanese after speaking with him directly. Burke said the same opportunity to remain in Australia is available to other members of the team.

Fears for the players' safety arose after they chose not to sing the national anthem before their opening match at the Asian Cup, prompting criticism from supporters of the Iranian government. Although they sang in later matches, concerns remained about potential repercussions if they returned to Iran.

The situation comes amid heightened regional tensions following military strikes involving the United States and Iran, which have disrupted travel and sporting arrangements across the region. Football's world governing body said it remains in close contact with Australian authorities, stressing that the players' safety is the priority.