Switzerland – Jordan refused to play its scheduled FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup match against Israel on Sunday, reportedly in protest against the ongoing war in Gaza, Jordanian media reported. The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) confirmed the game would be forfeited in favor of Israel.

The Jordan News Agency said the Jordanian Basketball Federation submitted an official request to FIBA to not participate in the match, aligning with its principles and steadfast political stance under the current circumstances.

While the federation did not elaborate further, Jordan’s Ad-Dustour newspaper linked the decision directly to the conflict in Gaza.

Amos Frishman, president of the Israeli Basketball Federation, expressed regret over Jordan’s withdrawal. “I strongly believe that sport is a bridge between people and cultures and not a political arena,” Frishman told local media.

The forfeiture marks a rare instance of political conflict directly affecting international youth sports competition.