Reza Pahlavi calls for Australian government to ensure safety of players branded ‘wartime traitors’ by Tehran after anthem protest.
SYDNEY: The son of Iran’s late shah has urged the Australian government to protect the Iranian women’s national football team. Reza Pahlavi warned the players face “dire consequences” upon their return home after refusing to sing the national anthem.
The team was branded “wartime traitors” by an Iranian state television presenter following their silent protest. The act of defiance occurred before their Asian Cup match against South Korea last week.
Pahlavi, who positions himself as an alternative leader should the Islamic republic fall, made the plea on social media platform X. He stated the team is under “significant pressure and ongoing threat” from the Iranian regime.
“I call on the Australian government to ensure their safety and give them any and all needed support,” he said. The players are due to return to Iran after being eliminated from the tournament.
Following their final match on Sunday, crowds surrounded the team bus in Australia. Local media reported chants of “let them go” and the waving of anti-government flags.
Australia faces mounting pressure to offer asylum to the side. Iran’s embassy in Australia did not respond to a request for comment.
