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In a rare instance of international diplomacy, Albanese engaged in a phone conversation with Trump between 1 am and 3 am AEDT, as indicated by Trump’s posts on Truth Social.
The details regarding who initiated the call or the duration of their conversation remain unclear. However, the dialogue concluded with Trump expressing commendation.
The incident unfolded Monday night when five members of the Iranian women’s soccer team, staying at a hotel on the Gold Coast, managed to evade their overseers.
Now under police protection and seeking asylum, these women prompted Trump to urge action from Australia through a post on Truth Social.
“Australia is committing a grave humanitarian error by permitting the Iranian Women’s National Soccer team to be sent back to Iran, where they likely face death,” Trump stated in the post shortly after 1 am AEDT.
“Don’t do it, Mr. Prime Minister, give ASYLUM.
“The U.S. will take them if you won’t. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”
The footballers fear persecution if they return home after being labelled traitors for not singing the national anthem at the Asian Cup in Queensland.
Whilst only five of the team’s players had been able to escape, it was hoped more would join them, Iranian Society of Queensland vice president Hadi Karimi told 9news.com.au.
Australian authorities have resisted any strong commentary on the issue, including responding to requests from this website close to midnight asking for any comment on the developments on the Gold Coast.
But at some point during the night the prime minister decided it was necessary to speak with Trump.
“I just spoke to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, of Australia, concerning the Iranian National Women’s Soccer Team. He’s on it!” Trump said as he returned to Truth Social just before 3am (AEDT).
“Five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way.
“Some, however, feel they must go back because they are worried about the safety of their families, including threats to those family members if they don’t return.
“In any event, the Prime Minister is doing a very good job having to do with this rather delicate situation.
There was no immediate response from Albanese.
Albanese, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, the Department of Home Affairs, and the Australian Federal Police have been contacted for comment.
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