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BREAKING: The IIHF Has Pulled Team Israel From Participating In All Federation Tournaments
Approaching the second anniversary of Russia's exclusion from International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) tournaments, another country, Israel, finds itself sidelined. The IIHF announced the removal of Team Israel from future tournaments, citing safety concerns as the primary reason.
«After careful consideration, the IIHF Council has decided that, due to concerns over the safety and security of all participants in the Championships, Israel will not participate in IIHF Competitions for the time being.
In accordance with IIHF's duty of care to protect all participants at IIHF Competitions and its obligation to create corresponding health and safety policies, the IIHF Council, within its power found in IIHF Statute has decided to restrict the Israeli National Team from participating in IIHF Championships until the safety and well-being of all participants (including Israeli participants) can be assured."
In accordance with IIHF's duty of care to protect all participants at IIHF Competitions and its obligation to create corresponding health and safety policies, the IIHF Council, within its power found in IIHF Statute has decided to restrict the Israeli National Team from participating in IIHF Championships until the safety and well-being of all participants (including Israeli participants) can be assured."
This decision, echoing the rationale used for Russia, emphasizes the IIHF's commitment to the safety and well-being of players, staff, and fans. The move is not framed as a punitive measure but rather a precautionary step, aligning with the IIHF's duty of care.
Israel's exclusion follows a risk assessment and discussions with participating countries and hosts. The IIHF assures that the decision is not influenced by political stances but is a response to safety considerations. The background includes Israel's offensive against Hamas in Gaza in October 2023.
"The IIHF Council took this decision after careful consideration and based on a risk assessment, discussions with the participating countries, and discussions with the Hosts."
It's worth noting that Israel, victorious in the 2019 IIHF World Championship Division II Group B tournament in Mexico City, faces an indefinite absence from IIHF competitions until safety assurances are met.
Source: Bladeofsteel
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 11 | 284 ANSWERS BREAKING: The IIHF Has Pulled Team Israel From Participating In All Federation Tournaments Do you agree with the IIHF's decision to temporarily exclude Team Israel from participating in IIHF Competitions due to safety concerns? | ||
| Yes | 93 | 32.7 % |
| No | 191 | 67.3 % |
| List of polls | ||