Ireland refuse handshake with Israel after anti-Semitism allegation
The Ireland women's basketball team, in response to an allegation by an Israeli player about anti-Semitism, chose not to shake hands with the Israel players at their EuroBasket 2025 qualifier in Riga on Thursday.
Newsrael News Desk 09.02.2024
The Israeli Basketball Association published an interview with player Dor Saar on Tuesday, during which she made the allegation.
"It's known that they are quite anti-Semitic, and it's no secret; maybe that's why a strong game is expected," Saar said.
"This includes exchanging of gifts, formal handshakes before or after the game, while our players will line up for the Irish -national anthem by our bench, rather then the centre court," it said in a statement.
Israel coach Sharon Ducker said Ireland didn't 'respect' what the game symbolises after Irish players said they were concerned about playing.
While Ireland defied pressure to boycott the match - the federation said it was not feasible - several players opted not to travel to Riga.
Image - Screenshot
Basketball Ireland reported the comments to the International Basketball Federation, saying they were "inflammatory and wholly inaccurate".
Basketball Ireland also announced that its players would not be partaking in traditional pre-match arrangements with Israel.
"This includes exchanging of gifts, formal handshakes before or after the game, while our players will line up for the Irish -national anthem by our bench, rather then the centre court," it said in a statement.
Israel coach Sharon Ducker said Ireland didn't 'respect' what the game symbolises after Irish players said they were concerned about playing.
While Ireland defied pressure to boycott the match - the federation said it was not feasible - several players opted not to travel to Riga.
Image - Screenshot
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