Malaysia imposes ban on events involving Israelis
Malaysia has imposed a ban on Israelis participating in any event hosted by the Southeast Asian nation after barring athletes from attending the World Para Swimming championships in July.
Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah said on Wednesday that Malaysia's cabinet had decided on the measure last week.
The majority-Muslim country does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Israel and has long supported a two-state solution to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
"Even if we have already committed to hosting an event, they (Israelis) will not be allowed (into the country)," the minister said in a recording of a press conference heard by Reuters.
"Secondly, Malaysia will not host any event that has representation from or participation of Israel."
Israeli athletes have been barred by Malaysia from attending the World Para Swimming Championships scheduled for the eastern state of Sarawak from July 29-Aug. 4.
Swimmers from some 70 countries are expected to compete in the event which is an important milestone towards next year's Tokyo Paralympics.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said in a statement that it was "bitterly disappointed at the stance of the Malaysian government.
