In a dramatic turn of events, five members of Iran’s women’s football team have fled from their entourage at a hotel on the Gold Coast. This incident has caught international attention, with former US President Donald Trump urging Australia to offer asylum to the entire team.

Currently under police protection, these athletes fear severe repercussions if they return to Iran. Their decision not to sing the national anthem at the Asian Cup in Queensland led to accusations of betrayal back home.

Trump voiced his concerns, warning that if the women are sent back to Iran, it would be “a grave humanitarian error,” as they face the threat of death.

Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong refrained from providing comments on the individual asylum cases this weekend.

She stated, “This regime has a history of executing its own citizens and oppressing Iranian women. We stand with the people of Iran, especially the women and girls, in their fight for freedom.”

Wong added, “I prefer not to discuss the specifics regarding the Iranian women’s football team.”

NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.