Trump confirms Australia is sheltering Iranian women's soccer team who stood up to the regime

President Trump highlighted the sensitive nature of negotiations, noting that family safety concerns complicated efforts to protect all players
PUBLISHED MAR 9, 2026
President Donald Trump announced that five Iranian soccer players were safe in Australia following asylum concerns (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images, Dave Hunt/AAP Image via AP)
President Donald Trump announced that five Iranian soccer players were safe in Australia following asylum concerns (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images, Dave Hunt/AAP Image via AP)


WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump announced on Monday, March 9, that the Australian government is moving to secure the safety of the Iranian national women’s soccer team.

Following a direct conversation with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Trump confirmed that five members of the squad had already been "taken care of," with additional players currently in the process of being settled.

The team was in Australia for an international tournament when concerns for their safety escalated after players remained silent during the Iranian national anthem.

This act of defiance sparked fears of severe punishment by the Iranian regime, leading the president to advocate for asylum to prevent their forced return to Iran.

Delicate situation involves family safety

Members of the Iranian women's national soccer team pose for photographs after inspecting the pitch ahead of their game against South Korea on Monday at Robina Stadium on the Gold Coast, Australia, Sunday, March 1, 2026. (Dave Hunt/AAP Image via AP)
While five players are secure, others fear for family members facing threats if they do not return to Iran (Dave Hunt/AAP Image via AP)

In a statement released on Truth Social, the president characterized the ongoing negotiations as a "rather delicate situation."

While progress had been made for several players, Trump noted that some team members feel compelled to return to Iran due to concerns over the safety of their families.

The president reported that these players have faced threats against their family members if they do not return home.

Despite these complications, Trump praised Prime Minister Albanese for doing a "very good job" in managing the logistics and security of the players currently seeking protection on Australian soil.

Asylum offered to prevent possible executions



The push for international intervention follows a stark warning from President Trump, who suggested that the players could face execution if they were to return to Iran under the current regime.

To ensure their safety, Trump previously offered the players asylum in the United States if the Australian government did not act.



The president concluded his announcement with a message of support, stating, "God bless Australia!" as the remaining players continue their journey toward safety.

The administration remains vigilant as the "rest are on their way," monitoring the status of the athletes still navigating the transition.

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