sports

Two Iranian Footballers Receive Australian Citizenship

Two Iranian footballers who refused to sing the national anthem during the Asian Cup amid the war in Iran have been granted Australian citizenship.

Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh were among seven players who sought asylum in Australia after the tournament in March. While five returned to Iran, the duo remained, citing threats against their families in Iran.

Interior Minister Tony Burke presented the citizenships, calling the decision significant. The move follows a temporary ban on Iranian travelers to Australia to prevent similar departures. umafrika.club