Iran's soccer team used sign language for help

The Iranian women's soccer team's use of sign language to signal for help during the Asian Cup in Australia came after they initially refused to sing the national anthem in protest against the Iranian regime. This act of defiance led to threats against the players and their families, with Iranian state television branding them "wartime traitors". As the team's bus left the stadium, fans noticed them signaling for help, leading to crowds trying to block the bus. The players' actions occurred against the backdrop of a war in the Middle East, increasing the perceived stakes of their protest. Five members of the team were granted asylum in Australia. Australia's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that the players were in a safe location and welcomed to stay.