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Australia Grants Asylum to Iranian Soccer Players Amid War

3/12/2026

22 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Australia granted asylum to five members of Iran's women's soccer team who were in the country for a tournament when the Iran war began.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the players were transported to safety and had humanitarian visas processed.
The decision followed concerns raised by U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian groups about the players' safety if they returned to Iran.
Other players are welcome to seek asylum.

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Story summary

Australia granted asylum to five members of Iran's women's soccer team who were in the country for a tournament when the Iran war began.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the players were transported to safety and had humanitarian visas processed.
The decision followed concerns raised by U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian groups about the players' safety if they returned to Iran.
Other players are welcome to seek asylum.