Wong: Iranian players spoke to officials alone amid asylum reports

The government has not confirmed reports that two more members of the Iranian women’s football team have sought asylum. Foreign minister Penny Wong said she would leave updates to home affairs minister Tony Burke, who will hold a press conference later, and added the women were offered the chance to speak to Australian officials alone.

She described images of the remainder of the team boarding a bus as “very confronting” and said she was reluctant to speculate about their safety but was concerned given the regime’s record. Wong rejected the suggestion Australia is at war, saying the country’s support for the United Arab Emirates is defensive and aimed at protecting Australians in the region.

She noted Iran has previously targeted Australia, citing ASIO findings that at least two antisemitic attacks were orchestrated by the IRGC. Deputy prime minister Richard Marles also said Australia’s actions are defensive and taken at the UAE’s request, not offensive.

Australia

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