Responding to IOC, Erick Thohir Affirms Israel Visa Revocation is Constitutionally Compliant

The Indonesian government has a strong legal basis for deciding to cancel the Israeli gymnastics contingent's visa for participation in the 2025 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta.

According to Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) Erick Thohir, this visa cancellation complies with the provisions of applicable laws and regulations.

"This principle is also based on the 1945 Constitution, which respects public security and order, and also the obligation of the Indonesian State Government to uphold world order," Erick stated in Jakarta on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Erick delivered this statement in response to the stance of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which has urged international sports federations not to hold sporting events in Indonesia.

The IOC's stance follows the Indonesian government's policy of canceling the Israeli gymnastics contingent's visa some time ago.

The Minister of Youth and Sports explained that the government's decision was made after careful consideration, primarily to maintain public security and order within the country.

"The Indonesian government has strong reasons for taking steps to avoid the arrival of the Israeli delegation, out of respect for public security and order as part of efforts to contribute to upholding world order," Erick said.

He acknowledged that this decision carries consequences, including the potential loss of Indonesia's opportunity to host various sporting events under the IOC umbrella, such as world championships, the Olympics, or the Youth Olympic Games.

However, Erick stressed that this situation would not hinder the government's spirit to strengthen the foundation of national sports.

"The Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Indonesian government remain committed to preparing a blueprint for national sports development, including strengthening 17 priority sports and building national team training centers," he affirmed.

Furthermore, Erick ensured that Indonesia will continue to play an active role in various international sporting events, from the Southeast Asian and Asian levels to the global level.

"The government is also committed to playing an active role in various international sporting events, starting from the Southeast Asian, Asian, to world levels, so that Indonesian sports become ambassadors and a reflection of the nation's strength in the eyes of the world," he added.

With this commitment, the government hopes the world will continue to see Indonesia as a nation that upholds the principles of humanity and global peace, while continuously driving sporting achievements towards the world's highest level.(Antara)