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Tel Aviv, July 22, 2024 — Israel’s Olympic delegation departed for Paris on Monday, marking the beginning of their participation in the 2024 Summer Olympics under the shadow of heightened security concerns and ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from the war in Gaza.
The team, composed of 88 athletes, was seen off at Ben Gurion Airport, where Israel Olympic Committee President Yael Arad addressed the media.
“Our first victory is that we are here and going, and that we didn’t give up and have been competing in hundreds of competitions since October 7,” Arad declared, referencing the date when Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel ignited the current conflict.
The war has since provoked global protests and cast a pall over the Games for the Israeli contingent.
Heightened Security Measures
French authorities have significantly increased security measures in Paris, particularly for the Israeli delegation.
The team will be under strict security protocols throughout their stay. “It’s no secret that these Olympic Games are a little more difficult for all of us. But we have full confidence in the organisation of security,” Arad added, expressing her trust in the preparations made by French organizers.
Athletes Speak Out
Inbar Lanir, a judoka and 2023 world champion, addressed the controversy surrounding Israeli athletes due to the conflict. Despite acknowledging the contentious atmosphere, she maintained a positive outlook.
“I know that the Israelis and the Jewish community are not so likeable around the world,” Lanir remarked. “My part is to connect everyone by sports. It’s above all politics and wars and hate. So, I’m feeling safe and I’m excited to represent my country.”
Political Repercussions
The Israeli delegation’s presence has not been without political repercussions. Over the weekend, French lawmaker Thomas Portes sparked a political row by declaring that Israeli athletes were “not welcome” and calling for mobilization around the Olympics during a demonstration in support of Palestinians. This statement drew sharp criticism and heightened tensions.
In contrast, French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné issued a clear message on Monday, affirming that Israeli athletes were “welcome in France.” This stance was echoed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
In March, Pierre-Olivier Beckers-Vieujant, head of the IOC coordination committee for Paris 2024, stated that it was “out of the question to imagine” sanctions on Israel over its war in Gaza, differentiating it from the sanctions imposed on Russia due to its invasion of Ukraine.
Calls for Limitations
Despite these reassurances, there have been calls from various pro-Palestinian protesters and activists in France and the United States, as well as from Palestinian sports clubs and the Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations, to limit Israel’s official participation in the Games.
These groups have called on the IOC to take action against Israel in light of the ongoing conflict, though such measures have been firmly rejected by the Olympic governing body.
Israel’s Medal Hopes
Amid the tensions and challenges, Israel’s athletes remain focused on their sporting goals. Several competitors are seen as strong contenders for medals. Taekwondo athlete Avishag Semberg, who won a bronze medal at the 2020 Olympics, is among the hopefuls.
Gymnast Artem Dolgopyat, who secured Israel’s first gymnastics gold medal in 2020, is another prominent figure expected to perform well. Additionally, Inbar Lanir, the 2023 world champion in her category, is anticipated to be a significant competitor.
Conclusion
The 2024 Summer Olympics, set to take place from July 26 to August 11 in Paris, will be an arena not just for athletic prowess but also for navigating complex geopolitical landscapes. For the Israeli delegation, their journey to the Games is seen as a victory in itself, a testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
As they prepare to compete on the world stage, the athletes carry with them the hopes and aspirations of their nation, striving to transcend politics and conflict through the unifying power of sport.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members