Israel banned from ice hockey WC for security reasons

Israel's men's and women's ice hockey national teams were restricted from participating in the upcoming 2024 World Championships, Israeli media reported on Thursday, citing the decision of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) , reported Xinhua.

The decision was taken amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The IIHF explained its decision in "concerns over the safety and security of all participants in the Championships," adding that the safety and well-being of all participants, including Israelis, cannot be assured at this time.

It added that the decision was taken after careful consideration and based on a risk assessment, and discussions with the participating countries and the hosts.

The Israeli women's team was planned to play in Group B of the 2024 World Championship Division III, which will begin on March 24 in Kohtla-Jarve, Estonia, with the participation of Singapore, Thailand, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the host.

The Israeli men's team was scheduled to play in the worlds' Division II, Group A in Belgrade starting on April 21, alongside the United Arab Emirates, Croatia, Australia, Iceland, and host Serbia.

"We are disappointed, angry and above all frustrated," Israeli women's team captain Chen Kotler told the daily newspaper Israel Hayom.