Jakarta (October 14, 2025) — In a bold and unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves through the global sports arena, Indonesia has officially banned Israeli gymnasts from participating in the upcoming World Gymnastics Championship 2025, taking a firm stand against Israel’s ongoing aggression in Gaza.
The decision, widely praised by pro-Palestine supporters, underscores Indonesia’s unwavering solidarity with Palestine and its refusal to normalize relations with what it calls a state involved in human rights violations.
According to international media reports, the Indonesian government refused to issue visas to Israeli athletes who were set to compete in the world championship scheduled from October 19 to 25. The move was a direct protest against the Israeli attacks on Gaza, which have drawn widespread condemnation across the Muslim world.
In its official statement, the Indonesian Sports Ministry said that allowing Israel’s participation would contradict the country’s long-standing support for the Palestinian cause. “We cannot welcome athletes from a country that continues to commit atrocities against innocent civilians,” the ministry declared, adding that sports cannot be separated from moral responsibility.
Frustrated by the decision, Israel filed a complaint with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), demanding that Indonesia be ordered to grant the visas or that the championship be relocated to another country. However, in a major diplomatic and sporting setback for Israel, the CAS dismissed the appeal, affirming that no international sports federation has the authority to pressure a sovereign state into issuing entry permits.
The World Gymnastics Championship will now proceed in Indonesia with more than 500 athletes from 79 countries, but without the Israeli delegation. The decision has sparked both celebration and controversy online — with many hailing Indonesia’s courage to prioritize justice for Gaza over political pressure.
This isn’t the first time Indonesia has taken a stand against Israeli participation in sports. In 2023, it had withdrawn from hosting the ANOC Beach Games over similar disputes related to Israeli athletes.
Analysts say Indonesia’s strong stance reflects a growing global divide where sports and politics are becoming inseparable, especially amid the escalating Gaza conflict.
Keywords: Indonesia bans Israeli athletes, Gaza aggression, World Gymnastics Championship 2025, CAS ruling, Indonesia Israel sports controversy, Palestine solidarity, Israeli gymnasts visa ban, Indonesia stands with Palestine, Gaza war impact on sports.