Australia Pulls Out of Hosting Ice Hockey Tournament Due to Security Concerns
Australia’s ice hockey federation has decided to withdraw from hosting a lower-tier men’s world championship event featuring Israel’s national team, citing security concerns.
Reason for Withdrawal
The decision was made after a recent rise in antisemitic attacks in Australia, which created a national debate about whether the country was capable of hosting events that could spark protests.
Statement from Ice Hockey Australia
Ice Hockey Australia did not directly name Israel in its announcement, but local media quoted an email sent from IHA to the International Ice Hockey Federation saying it could not host the tournament in Melbourne as planned because of safety concerns due to Israel’s participation.
“The decision was primarily made to ensure the safety and security of athletes, volunteers, spectators, and other participants,” Ice Hockey Australia said in a statement. “IHA does not shy away from making this decision with safety at the forefront. IHA is not in a position to comment on global issues outside the sport of ice hockey and did not intend for an internal email to be shared broadly.”
Reaction from Jewish Groups
Alex Ryvchin, the co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, criticized the decision, saying it sends the wrong message.
“(Sport) has long been a field where the anti-Israel elements in society and in the world try to drive a wedge between Israelis and the rest of the world,” Ryvchin told Sky News Australia. “What is surprising is that the decision-makers have chosen to bow for that extremism.”
Prime Minister’s Response
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was asked about the decision on the “Today” TV program and expressed opposition to any form of racism, particularly antisemitism.
“This is a decision made by Ice Hockey Australia. They’re not a body, I’ve got to say, I’m familiar with and it’s not a sport I’m familiar with, like most Australians,” Albanese said. “But we should be opposed, and are, as a country to any form of racism, but particularly to antisemitism.”
Tournament Details
The tournament, a Division II Group A event for lower-ranked teams, is set to include Australia, Belgium, the Netherlands, Serbia, and the United Arab Emirates. The IIHF did not respond to a request for comment, but Ice Hockey Australia said it expected the world governing body to find a different host for the April 27-May 3 tournament.
Conclusion
Australia’s decision to withdraw from hosting the ice hockey tournament has sparked a national debate about security concerns and antisemitism. While the country’s prime minister has expressed opposition to any form of racism, the decision has been criticized by Jewish groups who believe it sends the wrong message.
FAQs
Q: Why did Australia pull out of hosting the ice hockey tournament?
A: Australia’s ice hockey federation withdrew from hosting the tournament due to security concerns related to Israel’s participation.
Q: What is the reason for the security concerns?
A: The concerns are linked to a recent rise in antisemitic attacks in Australia.
Q: What is the reaction from Jewish groups?
A: Jewish groups have criticized the decision, saying it sends the wrong message and allows anti-Israel elements to drive a wedge between Israelis and the rest of the world.
Q: What is the next step for the tournament?
A: The IIHF is expected to find a different host for the April 27-May 3 tournament.
