Basketball world governing body FIBA has issued an ultimatum to the Israel Basketball Association regarding the participation of its Under-19 national team in the upcoming FIBA U19 World Cup, set to tip off on June 28 in Switzerland.
In a phone call between IBA Chairman Amos Frishman and FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis, the latter demanded official guarantees that the Israeli team would be able to arrive at the tournament, despite Israel’s airspace remaining closed amid the ongoing war with Iran.
“Don’t worry, we’re participating,” Frishman assured Zagklis, but the FIBA chief insisted on receiving formal confirmation within 24 hours detailing how and when the Israeli delegation will reach Switzerland. Without such assurance, Israel’s spot in the competition remains in jeopardy.
Israeli team grounded amid war with Iran
Due to the conflict, Israel’s U19 team, led by head coach Sharon Avrahami, has been unable to train and was also forced to withdraw from an international preparatory tournament in Riga. With no permission from Israel’s Home Front Command to resume training and no clarity on flight options, the team is effectively grounded. Their scheduled departure date of June 26 now appears uncertain.
Several countries have offered to host the team for training purposes, but without security clearance and logistical approval, the squad remains sidelined.
Frishman has sent an urgent letter to Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar, requesting immediate government intervention.
Zohar responded publicly: “I will make sure the team gets to the tournament. I’m also working to secure approval for them to resume training.
This summer, eight different Israeli national basketball teams are scheduled to participate in international competitions. The U19 squad is the first facing the test of navigating a warzone lockdown in order to represent the country on the global stage.
As of now, the clock is ticking. Without a plan and a green light from Israeli authorities, the youth team’s World Cup dreams may be grounded before they begin.