Iran State TV Calls Footballers 'Wartime Traitors' After Anthem Protest

Iran's state TV presenter called the women's football team 'wartime traitors,' a much harsher label than last year's criticism.
By Newsroom | Sports, Iran |

Tehran-based state television, through its presenter Mohammad Reza Shahbazi, has publicly decried the Iranian women's national football team, labeling them ‘wartime traitors’. This pronouncement follows the team's decision to remain silent during the playing of their national anthem prior to a match against South Korea in the Women's Asian Cup held in Australia. Shahbazi, speaking on Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, characterized the players' actions as a "pinnacle of dishonor" and stated that "traitors during wartime must be dealt with more severely." This broadcasted condemnation has amplified concerns for the safety of the athletes upon their potential return to Iran, particularly as they are reportedly unable to seek asylum in Australia due to threats against their families.

The team's participation in the tournament occurs against a backdrop of escalating international tensions and reported military strikes affecting Iran, creating an atmosphere where dissent is viewed with extreme prejudice. Players have been subjected to intense scrutiny and apparent surveillance, with limited access to information from their home country, leading to fears of misinformation being fed to them by team officials.

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The players themselves have shown a marked change in their behavior regarding the anthem. Before their second group stage match against Australia on Thursday, footage emerged of the team singing the anthem and saluting. This stark contrast to their earlier silence has been interpreted by some as a directive from the Iranian regime, indicating a coordinated effort to comply with perceived state expectations.

International football bodies, including FIFPRO, the global players' union, have formally urged the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and FIFA to ensure the safety of the Iranian squad. They have called for clear public statements from these organizations, affirming the players' unqualified right to respond, or not respond, to their national anthem. Furthermore, these bodies are being pressed to declare any threats or actions against the players or their families as a direct violation of FIFA's human rights framework, with consequences for the Iranian Football Federation.

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The Australian government has also been called upon to provide protection to the Iranian players. Concerns are particularly high for their well-being upon their return to Iran, given the severity of the state television's pronouncements. Sources close to the team suggest that seeking asylum in Australia is not a viable option for most players, as their families back home face punishment if the players do not return.

The Iranian women’s team has one remaining match in the tournament, against the Philippines. The outcome of this match will determine the conclusion of their participation in the Women's Asian Cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Iran's state TV call the women's football team 'wartime traitors'?
State TV presenter Mohammad Reza Shahbazi called the team 'traitors' because they remained silent during their national anthem before a match against South Korea. He said this was a 'pinnacle of dishonor'.
Q: What does 'wartime traitors' mean for the Iranian football players?
This strong label suggests the players could face severe punishment or danger when they return to Iran. The presenter said 'traitors during wartime must be dealt with more severely'.
Q: What did the Iranian women's football team do before the match?
Before playing South Korea, the team did not sing their national anthem. Later, before playing Australia, they were seen singing the anthem and saluting, which some think was ordered by the government.
Q: Are the players safe in Australia and what about their families?
There are worries about the players' safety if they return to Iran. They reportedly cannot seek asylum in Australia because their families back home could be punished if they don't return.
Q: What are international football groups asking for?
FIFPRO, the global players' union, asked the Asian Football Confederation and FIFA to make sure the players are safe. They want these groups to state that players have the right to react or not react to their national anthem.
Q: What is the latest on the team's tournament performance?
The Iranian women's team has one more match left in the Women's Asian Cup against the Philippines. The result of this game will decide how their tournament ends.