The global representative organisation for professional footballers, FIFPRO, has urged FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to protect the Iran national women's football team after they were labelled “wartime traitors” by an Iranian state television presenter.
In a statement, FIFPRO expressed concern over the safety of the players, citing reports that Iranian state television has publicly attacked the team for remaining silent during the national anthem before their opening match.
Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting presenter Mohammad Reza Shahbazi said in a video that the players showed a lack of patriotism and their actions amounted to the “pinnacle of dishonour”.
Threats and Concerns
Shahbazi stated, “Let me just say one thing: traitors during wartime must be dealt with more severely,” and “Anyone who takes a step against the country under war conditions must be dealt with more severely.”
FIFPRO Asia/Oceania has written to the AFC and FIFA, calling on them to uphold their human rights obligations and protect the players, citing the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and FIFA’s Human Rights Policy.
The Iranian players stood in silence when Iran’s anthem was played at the Gold Coast ahead of their 3-0 opening loss to South Korea on Monday.
Team's Situation
Ahead of their game against Australia, Iran forward Sara Didar fought back tears and spoke about the war, while coach Marziyeh Jafari said her players were doing their best to focus on the tournament despite concern for their families back home.
Iran face the Philippines on Sunday in their final group match.
Source: Original Media Outlet Name
