Palestine Olympic ban

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach affirmed the organization's neutrality following a Palestinian request to exclude Israel from the Paris Olympics due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Palestinian Olympic Committee cited the bombings in Gaza as a breach of the Olympic truce, highlighting the suffering of Palestinian athletes and the destruction of sports facilities, claiming around 400 have been killed. Bach emphasized that both Israel and Palestine have recognized National Olympic Committees, and the IOC is not in the political arena but focused on bringing athletes together. French officials, including President Macron, have reiterated the welcome status of Israeli athletes for the Games, countering calls for a boycott. As the Games approach, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains a significant backdrop to the event, with the IOC likely to reject the Palestinian request. The situation reflects broader tensions as the opening ceremony nears, with athletes already arriving at the Olympic Village.