Iranian footballers who defied Tehran become Australian citizens

Two Iranian footballers who publicly defied Tehran have become Australian citizens. Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, 34, and Fatemeh Pasandideh, 22, were naturalised in Brisbane, Queensland, on Wednesday. Ramezanisadeh said it was a "truly peculiar and unforgettable day", portion her teammate said "this infinitesimal means much than words tin express". They were among 7 members of Iran's national squad to be granted humanitarian visas while in Australia for the Women's Asian Cup in March, but the other 5 changed their minds and returned home. Officials feared the squad would face repercussions for refusing to sing the Iranian anthem at their opening match, just days after the US‑Israeli warfare against Iran began. Under pressure from the Iranian community in Australia, authorities initially gave the players a chance to seek asylum; in the end, only Ramezanisadeh and Pasandideh took up the offer. There was never any question whether both would become citizens, but the decision comes as the Australian government prepares to unveil tougher visa rules aimed at cutting migration. The proposed changes are expected to restrict the work and appeal rights of asylum seekers and to bar visitors from applying for family visas. The government has faced mounting pressure from political opponents demanding stricter migration policy, while exile groups have criticised existing measures, saying they endanger the safety of asylum seekers. Ramezanisadeh and Pasandideh received their citizenship certificates at a ceremony attended by Australian Interior Minister Tony Burke. "It's a caller opening and a spot I'm arrogant to telephone home," Pasandideh said. Ramezanisadeh recalled "all the challenges we faced" and added that she felt "proud and profoundly grateful to go an Australian citizen." The two players have since been training with the A‑League Women's side Brisbane Roar, planning to continue their elite sporting careers in Australia. The episode unfolded against the backdrop of the conflict that began in their homeland on 28 February, when Israel and the US launched joint aerial strikes. Concerns for the team's safety grew after footage showed a man on state television calling them "traitors" who should be punished for their silence during the Iranian anthem on 2 March. Human rights activists have said the women who returned to Iran may have been pressured to reverse their decisions through threats against their families. Iran's sports ministry said at the time that the returnees had "defeated the enemy's plans" against them through their "national spirit and patriotism".