Israeli Bowlers Set to Compete After Ban Reversal

Israeli players will now be allowed to compete in the World Indoor Bowls Championships in January after tournament organizers reversed an earlier ban. The World Bowls Tour (WBT) initially withdrew invitations for three Israeli players—Daniel Alomin, Amnon Amar and Itai Rigbi—due to escalating political concerns following the participation of Israeli bowlers in the Scottish International Open in August.

Organizers made the decision to ensure the event’s integrity and success, but after they implemented additional security measures, they reinstated the players. Alomin will compete in the World Open Singles while Amar and Rigbi will participate in the World Open Pairs. The WBT acknowledged the difficulty of the situation and expressed relief in reaching a decision that allowed players from all supporting countries to participate.

Pro-Palestinian groups such as Palestine Action and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, pressured organizers to exclude Israeli athletes. These groups argued that Israel’s treatment of Palestinians amounted to apartheid, a claim that Israel denies. The Board of Deputies of British Jews condemned the ban as discriminatory. Some, including MP Rupert Lowe, who represents the area hosting the event, welcomed the decision and called it the right choice.

This incident unfolded amid ongoing political tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict which has caused significant casualties on both sides. Despite the political pressures, Israeli athletes have not faced bans from other sports with World Bowls and international sports federations reaffirming their commitment to fair participation.