There are concerns over the security of Iran’s women’s football team, which have been condemned by Iranian state television.
The players did not sing the national anthem before their match against South Korea on the Gold Coast, in what was seen as a silent demonstration against the regime of the Islamic Republic.
Against the Matildas on Thursday evening they waved and sang loudlyin what we were told was a clear directive from the regime.
Today, footage was broadcast by the state-controlled Islamic Republic of Iran TV channel showing radical-conservative presenter Mohammad Reza Shahbazi heckled the players in response to their silence.
“In times of war, traitors must be treated harsher. Anyone who takes even a single action against the country in times of war must face harsher consequences,” he said.
“Take for example not singing the national anthem in our women’s soccer team and this photo that was published.
“This is no longer a protest or a symbolic demonstration. In war conditions, going there and refusing to sing the national anthem is the height of immodesty and betrayal.
“The people and authorities should treat them as wartime traitors, not as individuals staging some kind of symbolic protest.
“The shame of this brazen betrayal must rest on their shoulders, and they must be treated appropriately so that others will take it as a warning.”
Iranian players did not sing before their opening match against South Korea. (Getty Images: Albert Pérez)
According to the Islamic Republic’s penal code, corruption or treason can result in long prison sentences or even the death penalty.
Tensions seem to be growing within the team’s camp. Personnel linked to the regime are embedded in the team and players are believed not to be allowed to move freely or use their phones.
According to sources close to the team, attempting to seek asylum in Australia is not an option for most, as their families in Iran are under threat and face sanctions if they do not return.
An Iranian-Australian source told us they “know little about the Islamic Republic of Iran in my neighborhood” due to the regime’s increased presence around the team in Australia.
It’s unclear when or how players will return to Iran, with widespread airspace closures across the Middle East since the war began over the weekend.
The Iranians have one match left to play, against the Philippines on Sunday on the Gold Coast.
In a statement provided to the ABC, a spokesperson for Australia’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup local organizing committee said:
“The safety and well-being of all players, officials and fans is the tournament’s top priority.
“All participating teams are supported by the AFC, the local organizing committee and the relevant authorities to ensure a safe and secure environment throughout the competition.”
