JAKARTA: Indonesia has denied visas to Israeli gymnasts participating in the upcoming 53rd Artistic Gymnastics World Championships. Indonesia has cited the decision as a strong protest against the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The Indonesian Gymnastics Federation has confirmed that Israeli athletes will not be allowed to compete in the major event in Jakarta from October 19 to 25. The move is widely seen as a clear political message in opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza.

Federation President Eita Uliaty said the visa denials reflected Indonesia’s strong stance on the conflict and served as a protest against the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Although the Israeli team was expected to participate, the Israel Gymnastics Federation has not yet issued an official statement on the decision.

The incident highlights how global political conflicts continue to have an impact on international sporting arenas, where international competitions often become a platform for diplomatic messages