IOC on Israel's double standards

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has faced backlash for its decision to allow Israel to compete in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, while rejecting calls to ban the country amidst ongoing conflicts in Gaza. Palestinian Olympic Committee head Jibril Rajoub criticized the IOC for 'double standards' and called for a boycott of the Games, citing the deaths of approximately 400 Palestinian athletes and the destruction of sports facilities due to Israeli military actions. IOC President Thomas Bach emphasized that the organization remains neutral and that both Israeli and Palestinian athletes will participate. In response to security concerns, the French government has deployed extensive security measures, including 45,000 police officers and military personnel. Palestinian athletes were welcomed in Paris with protests against Israel's participation, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The situation underscores the complexities of political tensions surrounding the Olympic Games and the differing responses to international conflict.