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
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.

GET BREAKING U.S. NEWS & POLITICAL UPDATES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

Former CENTCOM commander Frank McKenzie argued Iran's main oil export terminal could become a key bargaining chip in future US-Iran talks
1 hour ago
One of South Carolina’s most recognizable Republican figures, Lindsey Graham represented the state in the Senate for more than two decades
1 hour ago
Mitch McConnell honored Lindsey Graham's decades of Senate service, saying his legacy will be remembered by colleagues and constituents
1 hour ago
The tense exchange came as Jake Tapper sought answers on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz during a phone interview centered on Lindsey Graham
3 hours ago
Donald Trump said Lindsey Graham's 2018 Senate Judiciary Committee remarks helped turn the tide during Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation battle
4 hours ago
Scott Bessent has reportedly been approached for a Senate bid
5 hours ago
'We probably had a little bit of a different attitude, but we got along on it. Essentially we agreed on almost everything', Trump said
11 hours ago
The proclamation came hours after Lindsey Graham's office announced he had died following a 'brief and sudden illness'
12 hours ago
'Graham was very proud of the work he was doing with regard to the Russian sanctions bill that he’s been working on for over a year' Mike Rounds said
12 hours ago
Ron Johnson's appointment is not automatic and still needs Senate approval, though the process is typically routine, the report stated
12 hours ago