Iran women’s team fear death penalty after Asian Cup anthem protest
The Iran women’s national team reportedly face the threat of the death penalty for treason after refusing to sing their national anthem at the Asian Cup in Australia.
The players staged a silent protest during their opening match against South Korea on Monday.
They declined to sing the anthem or perform a military salute, an action interpreted as defiance against the country’s regime.
Iranian state television has since labelled the squad as "traitors", raising grave concerns for their safety upon their imminent return.
Accusations of wartime treason
Presenter Mohammad Reza Shahbazi issued a stark warning on state-linked media following the broadcast of the initial match.
In times of war, traitors must be dealt with more harshly. Anyone who takes even a single step against the country during wartime must face stronger consequences.
Under the Iranian penal code, acts considered treasonous can be classified as capital offences punishable by execution.
Journalist Ali Bornaei stated on social media that the athletes face arbitrary detention and danger to their lives if forced to return to Tehran.
The squad notably resumed singing the anthem in their subsequent defeats to the tournament hosts and the Philippines.
Calls for Australian asylum
Following their elimination from the tournament, calls have mounted for the Australian government to offer the players protection.
Julian Leeser, Australia’s shadow attorney general, urged the government to intervene on International Women’s Day.
Given the serious threats, members of the Iranian team should be offered asylum if they want it. The Australian government should not turn a blind eye to the danger these women face.
Refugee Council chief executive Paul Power confirmed that available evidence suggests the group is at significant risk.
Team Melli Banovan exited the competition on Sunday after conceding nine goals across three group stage matches.
