IOC suggests no major sports competitions in Indonesia after country bars Israeli gymnasts from championships

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is recommending that no international sporting events be held in Indonesia after the country barred the Israeli national gymnastics team from the world championships in Jakarta. Additionally, the IOC is ending any discussions with Indonesia about hosting the Olympics in the future.

"These actions deprive athletes of their right to compete peacefully and prevent the Olympic movement from showing the power of sport," the IOC executive board said in a statement.

An Indonesian government official declared earlier this month that Israeli athletes would be denied visas to participate in the championships, which started Oct. 19. 

Israel’s team included 2020 Olympic gold medalist and defending world champion Artem Dolgopyat in the men’s floor exercise.

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Team Israel competes during the rhythmic gymnastics group all-around final at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Porte de La Chapelle Arena Aug. 10, 2024, in Paris.  (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Indonesia is the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation and has long been a staunch supporter of Palestinians. The scheduled participation of Israeli athletes had sparked intense opposition within the country. The IOC initially condemned the sanctions in a statement released on Friday. 

"The IOC’s principled position is very clear: All eligible athletes, teams and sports officials must be able to participate in international sports competitions and events without any form of discrimination from