Can Palestine participate in the Paris Olympics?

Palestine has been in the spotlight for several decades due to its constant state of conflict with Israel and sadly that conflict has ignited once again following the tragic events that occurred on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked an air raid shelter located near a music festival, claiming the lives of more than 1,000 people, the large majority of whom were enjoying a concert. With that, we now face the prospect of both nations participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, while a ceasefire between them does not appear to be anywhere in sight.

Can Palestine participate in Paris 2024 despite its situation?

The answer is yes, and without any restrictions or punishment from any institution connected to the games. Pierre-Olivier Beckers,an IOC member and chairman of the Games Coordination Commission says that both the Israeli and Palestinian Olympic Committees “peacefully coexist,” so there will be no punishment for Israel either.

Palestine has its own Olympic Committee and has been a member of the International Olympic Committee since 1996. Although many states do not recognize it as a country - Spain, for example, officially recognized the state just a few months ago - it can participate without any problems. As mentioned Palestine has been competing in the Games since Atlanta 1996, however, the nation is yet to win a medal.

Where specifics are concerned Eight Palestinian athletes will be participating in the Summer Games in Paris. According to the Palestinian Olympic Committee, some 400 Palestinian athletes have been killed as a result of Israel’s ongoing military operation. Regarding, Israel itself, the country will be sending 88 athletes to Paris, with organizers stating that they will receive extra security protection. Indeed, Israel’s National Security Council released a statement on Tuesday that was aimed at the nation’s athletes, urging them to be mindful of potential terrorist attacks, protests, and other unrest aimed at them.