Denial of Israeli Gymnast Visa for 2025 World Championships Not Considered Discrimination

The Indonesian government's decision to reject Israeli athletes' participation in the 2025 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta has drawn international sports attention. However, Hetifah Sjaifudian, Chairperson of House of Representatives Commission X, asserted that Indonesia's stance is not discriminatory but a concrete manifestation of the nation's moral commitment to the humanitarian struggle and solidarity with the Palestinian people.

"Indonesia's stance is not a form of discrimination against athletes, but rather the nation's moral consistency in fighting for humanity and solidarity with the Palestinian people," she stated in Jakarta, Friday, October 24, 2025.

Hetifah made this statement in response to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) appeal urging international sports federations to reconsider holding events in Indonesia, following the visa cancellation for the Israeli contingent some time ago.

National Sovereignty and Free and Active Foreign Policy

According to Hetifah, Indonesia's policy is fully based on national sovereignty and the principle of a free and active foreign policy, which has long rejected all forms of colonialism.

She believes this decision aligns with the spirit of the Indonesian constitution that rejects oppression in any form.

"This policy is not based on hatred, but a constitutional stance rooted in Indonesia's history and values, which always side with independence and humanity," she emphasized.

In this context, Hetifah urged the government, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) and the Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI), to strengthen communication and diplomacy with the IOC so the issue can be resolved without harming Indonesia's position in the international sports world.

Upholding Sportsmanship and National Dignity

Hetifah also argued that the IOC should be objective and not apply double standards towards countries striving to uphold humanitarian values.

"Indonesia must assert its commitment to sportsmanship and world peace, while asking the IOC to respect Indonesia's humanitarian stance," said Hetifah.

As the institution overseeing sports, education, and culture, House Commission X will continue its oversight function to ensure government steps remain aligned with the values of sportsmanship and dignified diplomacy.

"House Commission X will also continue its oversight function and is ready to request explanations from Kemenpora and KOI in an official forum if necessary," she stated.

Sports Diplomacy: Between Principle and Achievement

In Hetifah's view, safeguarding Indonesia's honor in the international sports arena requires an open and constructive diplomatic approach, especially since Indonesia is also an active IOC member.

She stressed the importance of integrated policies between Kemenpora, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and KOI to anticipate sensitive political issues that could affect future global sporting events.

"Indonesia must be able to separate sports from politics without sacrificing humanitarian and constitutional values," he concluded.(Antara)