Australia has granted asylum to additional members of Iran's women's national soccer team, with the Minister of Home Affairs confirming that another player and a staff member accepted protection amid fears of punishment if they returned home. Five players had already accepted asylum earlier in the week. Officials said nearly all players and several staff members were privately offered the opportunity to remain in Australia without Iranian authorities present.

The situation unfolded after the team traveled to Australia shortly before a joint military offensive by Israel and the United States against Iran that resulted in the death of Iran's supreme leader. During the tournament, the players initially refused to sing the national anthem in what was seen by some as an act of protest, though they later sang it in subsequent matches.

Public pressure increased in Australia and abroad, including calls urging the government to ensure the athletes' safety. Some team members have reportedly chosen to return to Iran due to concerns about threats against their families. Australian officials said the offer of asylum remains available to any player or staff member who wishes to seek protection.