Why it matters:
This decision highlights how the Gaza genocide continues to influence international sports and diplomacy. Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, is sending a strong political message by blocking Israeli athletes, intensifying tensions around global sporting events, and seeking international recognition of Palestine.
The big picture:
The Israeli gymnastics team was set to participate in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championship in Jakarta from October 19 to 25, 2025.
This is not Indonesia’s first sports-related controversy involving Israeli regime. In 2023, Indonesia lost hosting rights to the FIFA Under-20 World Cup after refusing to host the Israeli team, illustrating its unwavering support to Palestine.
:What they're saying
Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Indonesia’s Senior Legal Affairs Minister: “The decision to deny visas aligns with Indonesia’s policy to not engage with Israel until the independence and full sovereignty of Palestine is recognized.”
Ita Juliati, Chief of Indonesian Gymnastics Federation: “The Israeli gymnasts are confirmed not to be attending the championship.”
Context:
- Previous incidents include losing FIFA Under-20 World Cup hosting rights in 2023 after refusing to host Israeli players
- The Israeli regime has brutally murdered over 67,000 Palestinians since October 2023, according to Gaza health authorities
Go deeper:
Two Years On, UN Urges End to Gaza War
M.Majdi - M.a.Mahmoudi
