Why it matters:
Sarajevo’s decision to host an Israeli basketball team behind closed doors has sparked outrage among citizens and pro-Palestinian groups. The move is seen as contradicting the city’s own tragic history of siege and suffering, as well as disregarding the growing global solidarity with the Palestinian people.
The big picture:
As Israeli sports teams face increasing restrictions and public backlash across various countries due to Israel's ongoing attacks on Gaza, the United Arab Emirates has chosen Bosnia and Herzegovina as an alternative venue for its matches against Israeli teams. The Sarajevo Canton Government justified its decision by claiming that “sports should not be politicized.” However, the decision has faced criticism for indirectly normalizing ties with a regime that has committed war crimes.
Go deeper:
Anti-Israel Protests Erupt in Birmingham Ahead of Football Match
Indonesia Refuses Visas to Zionist Regime Gymnasts
Pro-Palestinian Protests Disrupt Israeli Athletes’ Participation in Global Sports
F.abedi - seyed mohammad kazemi
