IOC calls for no international events in Indonesia after visa denial

The International Olympic Committee said Wednesday it will recommend that no international sporting events be held in Indonesia and has suspended talks about future Olympic-related hosting after the Indonesian government refused to issue visas to Israeli athletes for the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta, which began Oct. 19. The refusal, which followed domestic protests and statements of solidarity with Palestinians, means Israel’s gymnasts will not compete in the championships.

The IOC said its executive board decided to halt dialogue with Indonesia on hosting the Olympic Games, Youth Olympic Games and other IOC events until Jakarta gives written guarantees that all participants will be admitted regardless of nationality. The board also urged international federations to avoid staging tournaments, events or meetings in Indonesia until such assurances are provided. The IOC said it would invite Indonesia’s National Olympic Committee to meet at its headquarters in Lausanne to review the situation.

Indonesia’s decision was announced earlier this month by government officials who cited objections from religious organizations and other domestic groups. Senior legal...