Swiss Fencing Team Protests During Israeli Anthem at Euros

During the medal ceremony at the Under-23 European Fencing Championship in Tallinn, Estonia, the Swiss silver medal-winning team turned their backs on Israel's gold medalists as Israel's national anthem played, sparking widespread controversy. The protest drew strong condemnation from Israeli officials, with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar labeling the act disrespectful and an embarrassment to Switzerland. Members of the Israel Fencing Association also expressed disappointment, emphasizing that sports should foster unity rather than division. This incident is part of a broader pattern, as Israeli teams have previously faced similar protests, including a withdrawal by Iraq from a match against Israel in 2023. Despite the controversy, Israel's team received praise for their sportsmanship and performance, with their victory seen as a significant achievement for the country. The episode has reignited debate over the intersection of politics and sports on the international stage.