Three more Iran football team members change minds over asylum

"Australians should be proud that it was in our country that these women experienced a nation presenting them with genuine choices and interacted with authorities seeking to help them. While the Australian government can ensure that opportunities are provided and communicated, we cannot remove the context in which the players are making these incredibly difficult decisions."

"The national spirit and patriotism of the Iranian women's national football team defeated the enemy's plans against this team. It said they had resisted psychological warfare, extensive propaganda and seductive offers."

Three members of Iran's women's football delegation have reversed their decision to remain in Australia and will return home. The players—Zahra Soltan Meshkehkar, Mona Hamoudi, and Zahra Sarbali—were granted humanitarian visas after the team remained silent during Iran's national anthem at an Asian Cup match, drawing criticism in Iran. Australia's home affairs minister stated the government provided opportunities and support for safe futures, though acknowledged the difficult context influencing their decisions. Iran's sports ministry framed the return as a victory of patriotism, accusing Australia of propaganda. Of the seven players initially seeking to stay, only three remain as defectors.

Read at www.bbc.com