Trump Urges Asylum for Iranian Women's Soccer Team as Australia Steps In with Visas
In a dramatic turn amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly called on Australia to grant asylum to members of Iran's women's national soccer team, warning that forcing them to return home could put their lives at risk. The plea came shortly before Australian authorities confirmed humanitarian visas for five players, allowing them to remain in the country safely. The incident unfolded during the Women's Asian Cup tournament hosted in Australia, where the Iranian team—competing as visitors—faced immediate backlash at home after several players stood silently and did not sing the national anthem before their opening match. This act of apparent protest drew sharp criticism from Iranian hard-liners and state media, who branded some players as "traitors" amid the ongoing U.S.-Israel military actions against Iran. Fears grew that returning players could face severe punishment, including imprisonment or worse, given the charged p...