Bach: Israel’s qualification for Paris Olympics will not be affected
In light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, International Olympic Committee President Bach has confirmed that Israel’s participation in the Paris Olympics will not be at risk. Despite concerns over safety, Bach reassured that special measures will be taken to ensure the protection of Israeli athletes during the games.
The Israeli delegation, including the men’s football team, cyclists, and marathon athletes, are set to compete in various events across Paris. Israeli Olympic Committee Chairman Yael Arad stated earlier this year that the team will participate in the opening ceremony and will stay in the Olympic Village like other delegations, emphasizing the need to prevent discrimination against Israeli athletes.
However, tensions have risen as lawyers for the Russian Olympic Committee raised the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in arbitration, prompting accusations of double standards from Bach. Protests have erupted worldwide in response to the conflict in Gaza, with some calling for Israeli athletes to participate as neutral competitors in the Paris Olympics.
Geopolitical issues continue to intertwine with the games, as the International Paralympic Committee recently announced rules for Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete as neutrals. This decision has sparked backlash from Russian officials, who deem it discriminatory and inhumane.
As preparations for the Paris Olympics proceed, the safety and eligibility of all athletes remain a top priority for organizers and officials alike.