Ghanbari is one of about 400 people whom the authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran placed on the list of "supporters of enemies" over the past weekend, after she and her teammates refused to sing the national anthem before a match.
The Iranian national team traveled to Australia at the end of February, where they participated in the Asian Cup. Before the match against South Korea on March 2, the players listened to the anthem in silence, which was interpreted as a form of protest. Because of this, some Iranian media labeled them "war traitors."
Fearing possible consequences upon returning to Iran, Australian authorities offered the national team players asylum. Ghanbari and six other players initially accepted humanitarian visas but withdrew them a few days later.
According to available information, the reason for the change of decision was threats made to their families in Iran. The captain then returned to her homeland along with several other team members.
Two players, Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, remained in Australia, where they continued their careers with the Brisbane Roar club.
The authorities previously portrayed Ghanbari's return as a patriotic act, assuring that the players would not face consequences. However, the seizure of property represents a serious deviation from those claims.
The measures include blocking bank accounts, as well as confiscating movable and immovable property. According to reports, the authorities identify property through state registries, after which the assets are seized and often sold or repurposed.
Numerous well-known figures from the world of sports and culture, including actors, musicians, and former athletes, have also been placed on the list of "supporters of enemies." Among them is former national team player Mohammad Ali Karimi.
Special attention has also been directed toward individuals associated with Iran International and Manoto media outlets, which operate outside Iran and are known for reporting on protests and political events in that country.
Iranian authorities justify this action by applying laws that impose stricter penalties for espionage and cooperation with enemy states, claiming it is a matter of protecting national security.