Malaysia banned from hosting Paralympic Event due to Comment against Israel

Malaysia has been stripped off the hosting of the 2019 World Para-Swimming Championships by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). The Muslim-majority country was stripped after it barred Israel from the competition.

Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah said at a press conference:

“Even if we have already committed to hosting an event, they will not be allowed [into the country].”

He added:

 “[Malaysia would] not host any event that has representation from or participation of Israel.”

The decision against Malaysia was made at a meeting of IPC’s governing board in London. A statement from the meeting concerning Malaysia says the country:

“failed to provide the necessary guarantees that Israeli para swimmers could participate, free from discrimination and safely in the championships.”

The spokesman of the Israeli Foreign Ministry, Emmanuel Nahshon tweeted:

“is a victory of values over hatred and bigotry, a strong statement in favor of freedom and equality. Thank you @Paralympics for your brave decision!!!”