Iran Women’s Team Leaves Malaysia for Oman After Most Withdraw Asylum Requests

Overview

• Seven delegation members initially accepted Australian protection visas after an anthem protest, but five later reversed course to rejoin the squad.
• Windsor John of the Asian Football Confederation said the Iranian embassy organized the team’s departure to Oman and that the full travel plan was not disclosed.
• The two players still in Australia — Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh — are in safe housing, trained with Brisbane Roar, and one posted that “Everything will be fine.”
• Iranian state media branded the team “traitors” after the anthem silence, heightening safety concerns, and there are reports of family pressure that have not been independently verified.
• Australian officials say support continues for the players under protection, while Iranian authorities celebrated the returns and accused Australia of improper conduct.