President Donald Trump said the United States is willing to grant asylum to members of Iran’s national women’s soccer team after several players reportedly fled their squad while competing in Australia.

The incident unfolded during the Women’s Asian Cup tournament, where members of the Iranian team drew attention for refusing to sing the Iranian national anthem before a match. The gesture was widely seen as a quiet protest against Iran’s ruling regime and its treatment of women.

Following the match, reports emerged that at least five players left the team’s hotel and sought protection from authorities, fearing potential punishment if they returned to Iran. Iranian state affiliated outlets later accused the athletes of betraying the country during a time of conflict.

The players were reportedly placed under protection by Australian authorities while officials review their legal options. Their situation has quickly become an international issue as governments and human rights advocates warn that returning to Iran could expose them to severe retaliation.

President Trump weighed in on the situation in a post on Truth Social, urging Australia to allow the athletes to remain safely outside Iran.

“Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Women’s Soccer Team to be forced back to Iran,” Trump wrote. “These young women showed tremendous courage and they will face serious consequences if they are returned.”

Trump added that the United States would be prepared to step in if necessary.

“If Australia will not take them, the United States of America will,” he wrote.

Trump later said he spoke with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese about the situation and was told that some of the players were already receiving assistance while others were still deciding whether to seek asylum or return home.

Some members of the team are reportedly hesitant to remain abroad because they fear the Iranian government could target relatives who remain inside the country.

The situation has sparked widespread concern among international soccer organizations and human rights groups, who say the players could face serious consequences if they are forced back to Iran.