The Israeli Gymnastics Federation (IGF) has expressed profound shock and deep disappointment after its athletes were denied entry to Indonesia for the World Gymnastics Championships. The competition, scheduled to take place in Jakarta, saw the Indonesian government refuse to issue travel visas for the Israeli delegation, effectively barring their participation.
Indonesia’s decision, initially announced on October 10, stems from its long-standing refusal to grant entry to Israeli nationals. This stance is officially attributed by Indonesia to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, specifically citing the casualties among Palestinian citizens over a period exceeding two years. As a predominantly Muslim nation, Indonesia maintains strained diplomatic relations with Israel, a significant factor that further complicated the situation.
Following the initial refusal, Israel lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). However, CAS subsequently dismissed Israel’s initial complaint regarding Indonesia’s visa denial. A second appeal by Israel to CAS, aimed at compelling the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) to either ensure Israeli athletes’ participation or relocate the championship to an alternative host country, was also rejected. CAS consistently denied all of Israel’s requests for urgent interim measures, underscoring the finality of the situation.
Sarit Shenar, Secretary-General of the IGF, conveyed his deep disappointment, confirming that the journey for the Israeli gymnastics team to the competition had reached an insurmountable end. He remarked on the critical timing of the event, stating, “For the World Gymnastics Championships, this is the final stage. So we cannot stop or postpone the competition, no matter what happens to gymnastics. We still cannot fulfill their wishes.”
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) clarified its position, stating it lacked the authority to demand or instruct Indonesia to issue travel visas to the Israeli delegation.
Indonesian Senior Legal Affairs Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra provided further insight into his government’s decision, explaining that the refusal to grant visas was influenced by strong objections from local Muslim clerics and directly supported by the government in Jakarta. He also noted that the Gaza conflict continues to draw widespread criticism from the Indonesian populace, regardless of any ceasefire agreements.
The underlying geopolitical tension referenced in Indonesia’s decision relates to the recent conflict in the Gaza region between Israel and Hamas militants, which had culminated in a ceasefire agreement. This conflict, spanning over two years, has been a significant point of contention, influencing diplomatic positions and public sentiment in many Muslim-majority nations, including Indonesia.
