Reza Pahlavi Urges Australia Protect Iranian Women Footballers

TEHAN: (Web Desk) – Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last monarch Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, has urged Australia to ensure the safety of the visiting Iran women’s national football team, warning they could face serious consequences after refusing to sing their national anthem before a match.

The Iranian players remained silent while the anthem played ahead of an AFC Women’s Asian Cup tournament match last week. The gesture was widely interpreted as a sign of protest against the leadership of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

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Speaking on social media, Pahlavi said the players are under intense pressure and potential threats from authorities in Iran. He called on the Australian government to guarantee their security and provide any support necessary.

His appeal adds to growing international calls asking Australia to consider offering asylum to the team. Support has come from politicians, human rights activists and author J. K. Rowling.

The controversy intensified after the team declined to sing the anthem before a match against South Korea, shortly after the outbreak of war involving the United States and Israel with Iran. An Iranian state television presenter later labeled the players “wartime traitors”.

Meanwhile, supporters gathered outside a stadium on the Gold Coast, chanting slogans such as “regime change for Iran” and “save our girls.” Protesters also surrounded the team bus demanding the players be allowed to remain abroad.

So far, Canberra has not indicated whether asylum could be offered. Penny Wong, Australia’s foreign minister, said the country stands in solidarity with the people of Iran but declined to comment on the specific case.

Human rights groups, including campaigners from Amnesty International, warn that the players could face persecution or punishment if they return to Iran, especially if authorities believe their actions were politically motivated.