image sourced from original article at Kuwaiti jiu-jitsu champion Jassim Alhatem refused to shake hands with Israeli bronze medalist Yoav Manor during a medal ceremony at an international competition in Abu Dhabi. Alhatem also declined to take part in the traditional winners' photo, creating a tense scene following the conclusion of the men’s under 77 kilogram division.
In a video shared on social media, Alhatem defended his actions, saying he had informed Manor beforehand that he did not wish to greet him. He referred to Israel as the 'Zionist entity' and said Muslim athletes must have principles, rejecting the idea that sports and politics should be kept separate.
Members of the Israeli delegation said Alhatem accused Israelis of harming children and indicated he would not have competed had Manor reached the final. Manor remained on the podium and attempted to shake Alhatem’s hand, with Israeli officials later praising his composure and sportsmanship.
Event organizers reportedly tried to calm the situation and encourage Alhatem to complete the ceremony, but he chose to leave the podium area. Requests for comment from organizers and Alhatem were not answered before publication.
