Australian Govt Urged to Safeguard Iranian Women's Soccer Stars
Iranian women's soccer team members face threats after protesting oppressive regime. Calls for Australia to offer asylum and protection.
The Australian government is facing calls to protect members of the Iranian women's soccer team who are currently in the country for a match. The players have been vocal in their support for the ongoing protests against the Iranian regime, which has led to fears for their safety.
The protests in Iran were sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who died in police custody after being arrested for allegedly violating the country's strict hijab laws. Since then, the protests have grown into a broader movement against the Iranian government's oppressive policies, with women playing a central role.
Several members of the Iranian women's soccer team have expressed solidarity with the protesters, posting messages of support on social media and even cutting their hair in a show of defiance. This has drawn the ire of the Iranian regime, which has threatened the players and their families back home.
As the team prepares to face Australia in a match on Sunday night, there are growing concerns for their safety. Human rights groups and political leaders in Australia have called on the government to offer asylum and protection to the players if they choose to defect.
Source: The New York Times
