There’s plenty of World Gymnastics Championships The Olympic Games open this Sunday in Jakarta, without Israeli athletes. The Indonesian government has refused to issue visas to the delegation from the Jewish state. Indonesian Minister of Legal Affairs and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra explained this decision by the war in the Middle East and the refusal to have contacts with Israel without recognition of Palestine. free and sovereign ».
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) responded by simply noting this decision and sharing its hope that " athletes around the world can enjoy sport safely and with peace of mind " as soon as possible. The IOC was more committed in a statement released Friday. It said " deeply concerned by the decision of the Indonesian government “, recalling that” all athletes, teams and sports officials meeting the eligibility criteria must be able to participate in international sporting competitions and events without suffering any form of discrimination from the host country, in accordance with the Olympic Charter » and the principles governing the Olympic Movement.
The IOC has held discussions with the FIG, the Indonesian IOC member, the NOC and the Indonesian government. with the aim of contributing to the search for a solution ", without success. " The IOC deeply regrets this situation, especially as it comes after the significant progress towards a peace agreement observed at the recent peace summit in Egypt, as witnessed by the President of Indonesia. » Sanctions could follow since the IOC Executive Board " will address the specific situation of Indonesia at its next meeting, with regard to relevant stakeholders ". The IOC thus recalls that " Sport must remain a safe space where athletes can achieve their dreams, without being held responsible for the political decisions taken ».
