France is preparing to host the Olympic Games after a 100-year hiatus. Discussions are ongoing ahead of the event, which will take place in the capital Paris between July 26 and August 11, regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the international sports event, as well as the participation of Israeli athletes in the event.
Reactions to Israeli Athletes’ Participation
Following the statements made by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo during her visit to Ukraine and the reactions received from French MPs, opposition is growing regarding the participation of Israeli athletes in the Olympic Games in Paris. The participation of Israeli athletes in the event was criticized due to its association with the events in Gaza and the Israeli army.
Call for Protest from MPs
French MPs are protesting the participation of Israeli athletes in the Olympics, calling for France to raise its voice and for Israel to be banned from the Olympics. The French government has also announced that Israeli athletes will take part in the event and that the necessary security measures will be taken.
Counter-Movements by Palestinian Supporters
The demonstrations held in Paris to protest the participation of Israeli athletes in the Olympics and the reactions from international platforms are supported by Palestinian supporters who oppose the participation of Israeli athletes in the event. In addition, the Palestinian Olympic Committee has called for Israel’s athletes to be banned from the Olympics.
Statements by French President Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that there is a difference between the Russia-Ukraine War and Israel’s attacks on Gaza, and argued that he supports the participation of Israeli athletes in the Olympics and that they should participate in the competitions with their own flag.
