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Iran Women’s Team Captain Withdraws Asylum as More Players Return From Australia

Australian authorities have recorded reversals following the squad’s anthem protest at the Asia Cup that triggered intense scrutiny in Iran.

Overview

  • Australian Interior Minister Tony Burke said three additional team members left Australia to rejoin those returning to Iran.
  • AP, citing Iran’s IRNA, reported that captain Zahra Ghanbari withdrew her asylum request in Malaysia and plans to fly back to Iran.
  • Several players had sought asylum or humanitarian visas in Australia after the Asia Cup, where some stayed silent during the national anthem.
  • Video shared on social media captured a player saying officials promised “rewards” and royal treatment if they returned, while activists warned of pressure tactics.
  • Reports described monitoring, phone searches, and limits on media contact, and it remains unclear whether the entire squad has now returned.