Iran's national women's soccer team has returned to the Islamic Republic after several of the players sought asylum in Australia, Iranian media reported on Wednesday. The outlets shared footage of the players entering Iran after landing in Turkey and taking a bus to the border. Others who initially sought asylum after the team was knocked out of the Women's Asian Cup later changed their minds and said they would return to Iran. Iran's squad arrived in Australia for the tournament shortly before the Iran war began on February 28. Iranian groups in Australia and US President Donald Trump were among those who expressed fears for the women's safety.

Source: The Telegraph March 18, 2026 14:20 UTC