Israeli Players Withdraw from Basque Country Open Over Flag Ban
A team of Israeli chess players has withdrawn from the Basque Country Open in Spain following the organizers’ decision to prohibit the display of Israel’s flag, citing opposition to its military operations in Gaza, reports 24brussels.
The tournament, scheduled to commence this week in Sestao for its 40th edition, had seven Israeli players registered, all of whom opted out after rejecting the conditions imposed by the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
Organizers clarified their stance by stating, “We want to raise our voices to reject the crimes committed against the Palestinian civilian population in the Gaza Strip and the indiscriminate attacks of the Israeli army.” The Sestao Chess Club supported this position, labeling the ban as “a sign of rejection of Israel’s systematic violation of human rights” and “an expression of our strongest condemnation of the genocide Israel is carrying out in Gaza.”
Proceeding with the event, organizers have decided that only the flags of Spain’s autonomous communities and the Palestinian flag will be displayed at tournament tables. Initially, there were considerations to exclude the Israeli team entirely from participation.
This development reflects a wider movement within Europe, where calls to exclude Israel from international sports are gaining momentum. Recent protests outside the Paris Olympic headquarters have urged a ban on Israeli athletes due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Additionally, members of the French parliament have called on the International Olympic Committee to disallow Israel’s participation in the 2024 Olympic Games.
Health authorities in Gaza report that Israel’s military campaign, escalating since October 7, 2023, has resulted in 64,756 Palestinian deaths and 164,059 injuries, predominantly affecting women and children.
This incident in Sestao underscores the increasing pressure from civil society and sports institutions across Europe to hold Israel accountable through its participation in international competitions, as the Gaza conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on civilians.
