Israel withdraws from an international tournament of failures of Saudi Arabia

The International Chess Federation on Tuesday withdrew an international tournament in Saudi Arabia after fearing that Israeli players will be banned from participating.

It was decided to transfer the competition to Russia.

Israeli gamblers backed by New York-based NGO Law Project have threatened to sue the International Federation for not allowing players to travel to Saudi Arabia, which has no relations diplomatic relations with Israel.

Last year, Saudi Arabia banned seven Israeli players from entering its territory to participate in an international chess tournament.

The World Chess Federation (FIDE) announced its decision to transfer the World Rapid Biltz, to be held in Riyadh from December 25 to 31, in Russia "because of the policy adopted by the Saudi organizers".

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The statement, which is currently headed by a former Israeli champion in Al-Shatrang, says the decision was made despite a generous financial offer from Saudi Arabia.

"The federation will not hold official events in countries that refuse to grant visas and fair treatment to all qualified players," the statement said.

"Officials in Riyadh can not guarantee the entry of representatives of all national associations authorized to participate in the event (in reference to Israel)," the IFRC said.

In December 2017, the Israeli Chess Federation announced that it had requested compensation from the organizers of the World Speed ​​and Blitz Tournament last year, as well as to Saudi Arabia after refused to issue visas to Israelis.

But Israel has made progress in recent months in its efforts to establish relations with the Gulf Arab States, which it does not officially recognize, including through sport.

Last October, Israeli Sports Minister Miri Regev visited the famous Sheikh Zayed Mosque in the United Arab Emirates, where she gave a speech in Dubai and performed the Israeli national anthem at the judo competition in Abu Dhabi. Dhabi.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a surprise visit to Oman in October and Israeli athletes participated in tournaments in Qatar.