International

He has reportedly refused, because he wants his wife to be at home for their seven-year-old son's first day at school, according to Fox News.

'My husband didn't give me my passport so that I can (take part) in the games, and because of his opposition to my travel abroad, I [will] miss the matches.' Ardalan told Nasimonline.

'I wish authorities would create (a solution) that would allow female athletes to defend their rights in such situations.

Ardalan had been due to travel with the team to Nilali in Malaysia for the six day competition, which starts on Monday.

It was claimed she had participated in weeks of training ahead of the tournament and is now calling for sportswomen to be exempt from the law.

'As a Muslim woman, I wanted to work for my country's flag to be raised (at the games), rather than traveling for leisure and fun,' she reportedly added.

The dispute was said to have sparked a debate in Iran, with many describing it as a family issue, which they claimed should have been kept private.

Mr Toutounchi was said not to have responded publicly to his wife's comments, according to Iranian media.