In a video statement cited here on Thursday, he assured the public that the upcoming tournament, slated for October 19–25, would not be participated in by Israeli contenders, as the government stays true to the nation’s unwavering support for Palestine’s independence.
He quoted President Prabowo Subianto’s recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly, stressing that Indonesia would not forge diplomatic ties with Israel before the people of Palestine achieve true freedom and independence.
Mahendra confirmed that the visa withholding decision also reflects the government’s prudence in responding to pressure from various religious organizations, regional governments, and political parties.
He went on to say that this policy had been coordinated with relevant officials, notably Minister of Immigration and Correction Agus Andrianto, who confirmed that a gymnastics federation once sent a sponsorship letter to Indonesia to facilitate visa issuance for Israeli gymnasts.
“The federation withdrew its sponsorship letter after realizing Indonesia’s tendency to reject visa applications from Israeli athletes,” Mahendra said.
While the statement did not specify which federation was involved, the context suggests it may have been the International Gymnastics Federation, the organizing body of the upcoming world competition.
Earlier, on Wednesday (October 8), Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo affirmed that he would not allow the presence of Israeli athletes in Indonesia’s capital.
“As the governor, I will certainly bar Israeli athletes from coming here,” he said, while urging the central government and related stakeholders to carefully address this issue.
On the same day, Deputy Speaker of Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR) Sukamta urged the government to take stern action in relation to Israel’s participation in the world-class event.
“The government must uphold Indonesia’s free and active foreign policy, which prioritizes humanitarian values and aligns with our constitutional principles. We cannot afford to permit Israel’s participation in international sporting events,” he noted in a statement.
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Translator: Fath P, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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