IOC Expresses ‘Great Concern’ Over Israeli Gymnasts’ World Championships Exclusion
The International Olympic Committee has voiced strong criticism against Indonesia’s decision to deny visas to Israeli athletes for the upcoming gymnastics World Championships, calling it a violation of sporting principles.
Key Developments
- Indonesian authorities refused entry visas to Israeli gymnasts for championships starting Sunday
- Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected Israel’s appeal to guarantee participation
- IOC to discuss Indonesia’s situation at next Executive Board meeting
Official IOC Statement
The IOC expressed “great concern” over Indonesia’s decision in a Friday statement. “The IOC’s principled position is very clear: all eligible athletes, teams and sports officials must be able to participate in international sports competitions and events without any form of discrimination from the host country,” the committee stated.
It emphasized that ensuring this principle is respected falls directly on the host country and organizers. “Sport must remain a safe space for athletes to fulfil their dreams; and athletes must not be held responsible for political decisions,” the IOC added.
Background and Context
Indonesia cited support for Palestinians as the reason for denying Israeli athletes entry. This marks the third major sporting event where Indonesia has faced issues related to Israel’s participation.
In July 2023, Indonesia withdrew from hosting the ANOC World Beach Games over Israel participation controversy. Earlier that year in March, the country lost FIFA Under-20 World Cup hosting rights after two governors objected to Israel’s involvement. Both incidents occurred before the current Gaza conflict.
The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with over 67,900 deaths in Gaza according to Hamas-run health ministry figures considered credible by the UN. Israel launched the war following Hamas’s 2023 attack that killed 1,221 people, mostly civilians.
