Indonesia defies Olympic Committee, blocks 'Israeli' athletes from championships

• Indonesia barred 'Israeli' athletes from the World Gymnastics Championships.
• The decision was due to 'Israeli' attacks on Gaza.
• The IOC threatened sanctions over the move.

Indonesia on Thursday stood firm against pressure from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) after Jakarta denied visas to 'Israeli' athletes for the upcoming World Gymnastics Championships, citing ongoing 'Israeli' attacks in Gaza.

Indonesian Sports and Youth Minister Erick Thohir acknowledged that the visa denial could have “consequences,” writing on the social media platform X, but emphasized the decision was made in line with national law and public interest.

Earlier this month, Indonesia announced that 'Israeli' athletes would be barred from participating in the championships scheduled for October 19–25 in Jakarta. In response, the IOC warned it would “recommend to all International Federations not to host any international sports events or meetings in Indonesia until” Jakarta guarantees access to all participants, regardless of nationality.

Thohir, however, stressed that Indonesia remains committed to international sports, stating, “We will continue to play an active role in various sports events at the Southeast Asian, Asian, and global levels, so that Indonesian sports can serve as an ambassador and a reflection of the nation’s strength in the eyes of the world.”

He added that the decision follows “the laws and regulations in force” and the 1945 Constitution, which obliges Indonesia to help maintain world order.” He further explained, “We… adhere to the principle of maintaining security, public order and public interest in every international event organized… On that basis, Indonesia has taken steps to avoid the arrival of the Israeli delegation at the Gymnastics World Championships.”

The move has also drawn attention to perceived inconsistencies in the IOC’s policies. Following the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the IOC banned Russian athletes from competing under their flag at the 2024 Paris Olympics, allowing them to participate only as neutrals. In contrast, 'Israeli' athletes were allowed to compete under their national flag in Paris while ongoing 'Israeli' attacks devastated Palestinian communities.