The Iranian women's national team is under threat.

The Iranian women's national team could face trouble after players refused to sing the national anthem before their match against South Korea at the 2026 Women's Asian Cup.

The Iranian women's team will not sing their national anthem in their opening match of the 2026 Women's Asian Cup.

Before kick-off at the Gold Coast stadium on March 3rd, all Iranian players remained silent as the national anthem played and did not participate in the flag ceremony. This move was seen as a message of protest amid escalating domestic tensions. However, the action quickly drew strong criticism from some figures in state media.

Presenter Mohammad Reza Shahbazi attacked the team, stating that actions deemed against national interests must be severely punished. This statement raised concerns that the players could face risks upon returning home, given Iran's strict laws.

The incident has prompted concern from many international organizations. Paul Power, Executive Director of the Refugee Council, stated that, given what happened, the members of the Iranian women's national team could face arrest if they were to return home.

Meanwhile, journalist Ali Bornaei called on the Australian government to consider supporting the players, and also sent a message to Foreign Minister Penny Wong that the lives of the Iranian women's team may be in danger after they were labeled traitors by some domestic media outlets.

When facing the Philippines women's team in the final match of the tournament, the Iranian players sang the national anthem and performed the usual flag ceremony. Observers believe this change may have stemmed from pressure and concerns about the consequences of their previous protest.

Source: https://znews.vn/tuyen-nu-iran-bi-de-doa-post1633275.html