Kuwaiti bowlers praised for refusing to face Israeli players at World Championships

Kuwaitis and Palestinians have praised Kuwait’s men’s and women’s bowling teams for refusing to face Israeli players in the last 16 of the World Championships in Germany, describing the decision as a principled rejection of normalisation with Israel and a show of support for the Palestinian cause.

Activists said the withdrawal was a moral stance against granting Israel sporting legitimacy at international events.

Sheikh Talal Mohammed Al-Sabah, president of the Kuwait Bowling Federation and the International Bowling Federation, praised the performance of Kuwaiti players at the tournament, saying it reflected the team’s progress and had exceeded expectations.

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He said the results were the product of the players’ commitment and determination to represent Kuwait honourably, adding that the federation’s board would continue to provide the necessary support and overcome obstacles to promote and develop the sport.

‘A principled moral stance’

Tareq Al-Shaya, deputy head of the Supreme Committee for Coordination Against Zionism and Normalisation, described the team’s withdrawal as “a moral stance worthy of appreciation and pride”.

He said it sent a message that Palestine remained present in the conscience of free people and reflected a rejection of granting Israel the appearance of normality at international events.

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