Israeli gymnasts barred from world championships in Jakarta

According to Anadolu Agency, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Reform, said that no visas will be issued to Israeli athletes.

The competition is set to be held from October 19 to 25.

Mahendra confirmed that the decision to deny visas reflects the government’s cautious response to pressure from religious groups, regional authorities, and political parties.

He added that the policy was coordinated with relevant officials, including Agus Andrianto, Indonesia’s Minister of Immigration and Reform. Andrianto revealed that a gymnastics federation had previously sent a letter to Indonesia in support of issuing visas for the Israeli gymnasts.

Mahendra explained: “The federation later withdrew its support letter after understanding Indonesia’s firm stance in rejecting visa requests for Israeli athletes.”

Although the statement did not specify the federation’s name, it is believed to refer to the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG), which is organizing the upcoming World Championships.