No Visa for Israeli Athletes, Indonesia Gets Surprising Support from FIG

As Jakarta prepares to host one of the world's most prestigious gymnastics events, the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Championship 2025, international political dynamics have become unavoidable. The championship, scheduled for October 19–25, 2025, has captured public attention not only due to its sporting prestige but also because of the issue surrounding Israeli athlete participation.

Amid public pressure, the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has finally expressed support for the Indonesian government's decision not to issue visas to Israeli athletes. 

This was conveyed directly by the Chairperson of the Indonesian Gymnastics Federation (FGI), Ita Yuliati.

"FIG today officially stated via a phone call to me this morning that FIG supports the decision taken by the Indonesian government," said Ita during a press conference at Indonesia Arena, Jakarta, on Friday.

Ita explained that since Indonesia's initial appointment as host, FGI had opened communication with FIG regarding Indonesia's political sensitivity stemming from its lack of diplomatic relations with Israel.

"Therefore, we asked FIG to understand Indonesia's position. We then held various discussions over the past period to ensure this World Championship runs smoothly and can adapt to the existing situation in Indonesia," she stated.

However, Ita emphasized that structurally, the authority over participating nations' registration remains fully with FIG.

"It's important to stress that this is an official FIG event, and Indonesian Gymnastics is the LOC, the Local Organizing Committee. Regarding the championship's execution, all regulations, registration systems, and decisions concerning participant nations' participation were entirely within FIG's authority," said Ita.

She hopes political dynamics will not overshadow the major goal of hosting this world event: leaving an important legacy for the development of Indonesian gymnastics.

"We ask for everyone's support so this event remains one of sportsmanship and pride for Indonesia. This is a historic opportunity for us," she said.

Support for the government's decision also came from the Indonesian Olympic Committee (NOC Indonesia). NOC Indonesia Chairperson Raja Sapta Oktohari believed this decision was taken after broad consideration.

"The decision taken certainly involved much deliberation. There is a larger interest that needs to be safeguarded: ensuring the world championship runs safely, orderly, and successfully for all parties," said Okto.

Previously, the Indonesian government firmly stated it would not grant visas to Israeli athletes. 

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Penitentiary Affairs (Menko Kumham Imipas) Yusril Ihza Mahendra explained that this stance aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive, which asserts Indonesia will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel until that country recognizes Palestine's independence.

Besides political reasons, the government also noted strong rejection from the public. 

"The government noted strong rejection from various religious community organizations, regional governments, to political parties regarding the plan for Israeli athletes to come to Jakarta," said Yusril.

Yusril added that this decision had been coordinated with relevant ministries. 

"I also confirm I have spoken with the Minister of Immigration Agus Andrianto," he stated.

A similar stance was previously expressed by Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo, who rejected the presence of Israeli athletes. 

He hoped all parties would consider the significant impact of this decision. 

Pramono even urged the government and organizing bodies to "think a thousand times before inviting athletes from Israel."

Despite high political pressure, the spirit to host remains strong. With FIG's support, Indonesia now holds a strategic position: upholding its foreign policy principles while maintaining its reputation as host of a world championship.(Antara)