Summary
Australia granted humanitarian visas to seven Iranian football players, but only two decided to stay in the country. The players were concerned about potential backlash from the Iranian Government for their previous actions related to their national anthem. A semi-official Iranian news agency described the players' decision to return as a "patriotic decision."
Key Facts
- Seven Iranian football players received humanitarian visas from Australia.
- Only two players chose to remain in Australia.
- The players feared retaliation from Iran's government.
- The players initially sought asylum after not singing their national anthem during a match.
- The Iranian Mehr news agency termed their return a "patriotic decision."
