IOC President Confirms Israel's Olympic Participation In Paris Games

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin watch the closing ceremony of the 2014 Winter Olympics, in Sochi, Russia, on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2

Israel has been assured by IOC president Thomas Bach that its Olympic status remains secure despite the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Bach confirmed that there is no threat to Israel's participation in the upcoming Paris Games, set to open on July 26.

Concerns had been raised about the safety of the Israeli team in France, given the current situation. However, Bach emphasized that special measures have always been in place to protect Israeli athletes, dating back to the tragic attack on the Israeli team during the 1972 Munich Olympics.

The Israel men's soccer team may play their group-stage matches in cities like Marseille and Lyon, away from the capital. Israeli cyclists and marathon runners are also scheduled to compete on the streets of Paris, outside secured venues.

Special measures in place to protect Israeli athletes during Paris Olympics.

Israel's Olympic status secure for Paris Games despite Gaza conflict.

Israel men's soccer team may play in Marseille and Lyon for safety.

Meanwhile, Russia, facing isolation in world sports due to its invasion of Ukraine, has been critical of the IOC's decisions. A recent legal case brought by Russia against the IOC highlighted comparisons with other conflicts, including the Israel-Palestinian situation, in an attempt to challenge its suspension.

Bach dismissed these comparisons, stating that there is no evidence of Israel's Olympic body recognizing Palestinian sporting organizations as its members. He also addressed Russia's attempts to question the IOC's standards, pointing out the country's own actions in Ukraine and past doping scandals.

Notably, Bach criticized the misuse of Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva for political purposes, referring to her ban for doping violations and subsequent appearance alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin at a recent sports event.

Despite these challenges, Bach reaffirmed the IOC's commitment to upholding fair play and anti-doping regulations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity in sports.

As preparations continue for the Paris Olympics, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and participation of all athletes, including those from Israel and other nations facing geopolitical tensions.

For more updates on the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, visit AP Olympics.