Donald Trump urges Australia to grant asylum to Iranian women's football team

Following the elimination of the Iranian women's national football team from the Asian Cup in Australia after a 2-0 loss to the Philippines, concerns have arisen regarding the safety of the players upon their return to Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump publicly urged Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to grant asylum to the athletes, warning that their return would constitute a humanitarian error. Trump later claimed on Truth Social that Albanese informed him that five team members are already under the protection of Australian federal police. Reports from SBS News confirmed that several players sought government assistance after the match. Trump stated that while some players are being cared for, others feel compelled to return due to fears regarding the safety of their families in Iran. He further noted that if Australia declines to provide asylum, the United States is prepared to accept the players. Reza Pahlavi, son of the former Shah of Iran, also joined calls for the Australian authorities to protect the athletes.