Australian Federal Police took the players to safety from a hotel on the Gold Coast in the early hours of Tuesday morning local time, Minister Tony Burke said. There they were discussed by the government representatives and later their visa process was completed. Speaking to reporters in Brisbane, Burke said the same opportunity was open to other members of the team.

According to local media reports, there were about 20 players in Iran’s women’s football team. After the competition is over, they are likely to return to their war-torn country. In this situation, Iranian organizations in Australia and US President Donald Trump called for asylum for the players. After this decision was taken by the Australian government.

During the competition, the players did not publicly comment much on the situation in the country. However, in a press conference, the team’s forward Sara Didar became emotional. He said that they are very worried about the safety of their family, friends and people of the country during the war.

The Iranian team’s silence during the national anthem before the first match against South Korea has sparked controversy. Some saw it as a sign of protest, while others interpreted it as an expression of mourning. However, no clear explanation has been given by the party. In the next two matches, however, they sang the national anthem.

Minister Tony Burke said these players are very popular in Australia and everyone wants to support them. But he admits, the players have a tough decision ahead of them. If they want, they can apply for asylum by talking to Australian officials. That opportunity has always been kept open by the government.