AM Iranian soccer players seek asylum
Mar 9, 2026
Hadi (Hardy) Karimi, Brisbane-based human rights activist, urges protection for players and highlights safety concerns. Tony Burke, Australian Home Affairs Minister, explains rapid visa processing and secure relocations. They discuss the five Iranian women who fled their minders, community efforts to shelter the team, and how authorities handled overnight protection and paperwork.
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Five Players Seek Protection In Australia
- Five members of the Iranian women's soccer team have fled their minders and are seeking humanitarian visas in Australia.
- Tony Burke said they were moved to a safe location by the Australian Federal Police and processing completed after 1:30am for visa applications.
Activists Guard Players At Gold Coast Hotel
- Human rights activist Hadi Karimi and others camped outside the Gold Coast hotel to prevent the remaining players being sent back.
- Karimi described constant presence and fears for players' lives if returned to Iran, saying they are there 24 hours to keep them safe.
US President Intervenes Then Softens Stance
- Donald Trump posted on social media urging Australia to grant asylum then later said he had spoken to Anthony Albanese and praised the handling.
- ABC correspondent Barbara Miller noted Trump's initial post warned the women 'would likely be killed' if returned, then he softened after the call.