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Former Iranian Footballers Granted Australian Citizenship Following Anthem Protest
Just the facts
Iranian female football players Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh received official Australian citizenship after receiving humanitarian protection. The athletes declined to sing the Iranian national anthem during a Women's Asian Cup match held in Australia as a gesture of protest. Following the protest, seven team members originally applied for humanitarian visas, with two choosing permanent residence in Australia while five returned to Iran. Australian immigration authorities finalized citizenship proceedings following the expiration of initial visa terms.
Why this is news
Two former members of the Iranian women's football team were granted citizenship in Australia following humanitarian visa requests.
Sources
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