In the lead-up to the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, Israel is significantly bolstering security measures for its athletes amid ongoing global tensions and the backdrop of the Gaza war, Jewish Insider reports. With less than three weeks until the opening ceremony, Israeli competitors are not only focusing on their athletic preparations but also bracing for potential protests, hostility from other athletes, and even the possibility of terror attacks.
Israel is sending 87 athletes who will compete in 16 events at this summer's games. Peter Paltchik, a judoka champion and one of Israel's flag-bearers for the opening ceremony, expressed confidence in the security arrangements. "There is going to be a lot of security, both French and Israeli," he told Jewish Insider. While unable to disclose specifics, Paltchik emphasized that the team feels well-protected and is concentrating on their athletic goals.
pro-Palestinian protesters demand Israel's exclusion from the 2024 Olympic Games in front of the Olympic Committee headquarters in Paris. pic.twitter.com/knGXIE50qP
— S p r i n t e r F a m i l y (@SprinterFamily) June 10, 2024
Paltchik has observed a change in attitudes among some competitors since October 7, saying, "Many of the athletes who used to be my friend do not want to talk to me anymore or shake my hand. I'm sure there will be other provocations," he continued, "but I am trying to stay focused on the technical stuff and on competing. Just being there and trying to win is the best representation for my country."
Israel has doubled its security budget for this year's games, reflecting the complex preparations required in light of current events. Israeli Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar told Jewish Insider, "There are more threats to Israelis abroad since Oct. 7, many times over. Our ministry is working in coordination with the Shin Bet. We're preparing in terms of how the athletes can practice and compete safely, both mentally and physically."
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The Champions Park, at the iconic Trocadéro site, opens on July 29. A place of sport, celebration, and culture, where over 1,200 medalists will come to celebrate their victory with the public. Emotions… pic.twitter.com/o1ANEnVuLN
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The security efforts involve close cooperation between Israeli and French authorities. Eytan Ben David, former head of the dignitary protection unit in the Shin Bet, explained that every member of the Israeli delegation will have security protection at the highest level. The Shin Bet has been working extensively with the Olympic Committee of Israel to assess security arrangements at various venues across France.
Despite the heightened security concerns, Israeli officials have refuted rumors of a potential withdrawal from the games. A spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy in Paris stated, "Our message is very clear, Israel, just like any other delegation, will participate in all the events, including the opening ceremony and the competitions itself." The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has also expressed its support for Israel's participation. IOC President Thomas Bach emphasized that there was "no question" Israel would compete as usual, highlighting the special measures taken to protect Israeli athletes since the 1972 Munich Olympics tragedy.
