Iran players labelled wartime traitors after anthem silence in Asian Cup opener

An Iranian state TV presenter called the women's national football team "wartime traitors" after they did not sing the national anthem before an Asian Cup match against South Korea in Australia.

An Iranian state television presenter has labelled the women's national soccer team as "wartime traitors" after the players did not sing their national anthem before the Asian Cup game against South Korea in Australia.

Iran are playing in the continental tournament even as a military conflict escalates back home after the U.S. and Israel launched air strikes over the weekend, killing the Islamic Republic's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Their players stood in silence when Iran's anthem was played before their 3-0 loss to South Korea on Monday, though they sang and saluted before a 4-0 defeat by hosts Australia three days later.

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" in footage circulating widely on social media.

"Let me just say one thing: traitors during wartime must be dealt with more severely," Shahbazi said.

The Iranian women’s national football team refused to sing the anthem of the Regime. Tonight. At the opening match of the Asian Cup. In front of the entire world. pic.twitter.com/VV8j3KFFtV— IRAN WATCH (@ab_ad68690) March 4, 2026