The Swiss news outlet Le Matin reported that the World Judo Federation is examining alleged political misconduct by Israeli judo bronze medalist Peter Paltchik, who claimed victories in Paris and Tokyo.
According to the Swiss website, "The flag bearer of the Israeli delegation finds himself at the epicenter of a dispute. The Ukrainian-born athlete lauded Israeli soldiers involved in the Gaza conflict during an interview. Additionally, the son of the judoka's coach [Oren Smadja], an army sergeant, lost his life in the fighting."
The report continued to mention that allegedly, "Prior to the games, Paltchik shared an image on social media, since removed, depicting signed explosives bound for Palestine. They reportedly bore the inscription: 'To you from me, with pleasure.'"
"This isn't aimed at any nation. It's not directed against a people, but against the Hamas terror cells," argued Yael Arad, Chair of the Olympic Committee and former judo champion. The World Judo Federation has now confirmed that it is liaising with Arad and the Olympic Committee regarding this "sensitive matter."
In response, the Israeli Judo Association said: "This is a rehashed fake news that Palestinians attempted to circulate even before the Olympics, aiming to discredit an Israeli athlete."
