The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed concern over Indonesia's refusal to issue entry visas to the Israeli delegation participating in the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships.
On October 18, the IOC released a statement saying, "We are deeply concerned by the fact that the Indonesian government has refused to issue entry visas to the Israeli gymnastics team seeking to participate in the 53rd International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) Artistic Gymnastics World Championships."
The IOC stated, "All qualified athletes, teams, and sports officials must be able to participate in international sports competitions and events in the host country without any form of discrimination. This is in accordance with the fundamental principles of the Olympic Charter, which governs the Olympic Movement, including non-discrimination, autonomy, and political neutrality."
The IOC added, "Host countries, organizing committees, and relevant sports organizations have a direct responsibility to ensure that these principles are fully respected and that the relevant authorities in the host country provide all necessary guarantees in advance."
The IOC emphasized, "Sport must remain a safe space where athletes can realize their dreams, and athletes should not be held accountable for political decisions."
The Indonesian government has refused to issue visas to Israeli athletes seeking to participate in the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships, which will be held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from October 19 to 25, thereby banning their entry. Indonesia, which supports Palestine, does not have official diplomatic relations with Israel.
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