Iran's women's football team faces growing safety concerns as they prepare to leave Australia after being eliminated from the Asian Cup, following criticism over their failure to salute the national anthem during matches. The controversy erupted when the team declined to sing the anthem before their opening game against South Korea, prompting a conservative Iranian commentator to label them "wartime traitors" and demand harsh punishment. While the team later sang and saluted during games against Australia and the Philippines, critics allege this was due to pressure from Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps officials accompanying them.

Hundreds of Iranian supporters in Australia have rallied around the players, booing the anthem and displaying the pre-Islamic Lion and Sun flag in defiance of stadium rules. The team's manager stated they are eager to return home, but fears persist that returning could be dangerous. Australia's government has so far resisted involvement, though human rights advocates and Amnesty International call for Australia to offer asylum if players feel unsafe, highlighting the players' restricted freedom during their stay. The team's bus departure was met with emotional scenes from supporters as they left the Gold Coast stadium under tight security.