Mar 31, 2023 11:16 UTC
  •  Lebanese runner refuses to compete against Israeli rival

Mazen Chreim, a Lebanese runner has withdrawn from the 200 meter competition of the World Masters Athletics after he was placed in a group that included an Israeli runner.

Chreim left Beirut International Airport on Tuesday to participate in the World Athletics Masters Indoor Championships in Toruń, Poland from March 26 to April 1, 2023 in 200 m, 400 m and triple jump (age category 40-44 years).

On his Facebook account, he adopted the position of the Lebanese resistance leader Sheikh Ragheb Harb, who refused to shake hands/deal with Israel because it is considered as an occupying enemy.

“Shaking hands with the enemies means recognizing them,” Chreim wrote, announcing that he decided to withdraw from the competitions after contacting the Lebanese sports federation.

The athlete told al-Mayadeen TV channel his withdrawal from this championship is considered as “a victory”, pointing out that he is a supporter of the resistance front that does not recognize the Israeli regime and does not participate in any sports competition with the representatives of this regime.

This is not the first time the Lebanese and Arabs have showed solidarity with Palestine and complete rejection of the Israeli regime, whether as fans or athletes.

SS

Tags