Security directive forces Israeli judo team to withdraw from Tashkent Grand Slam
admin_news
The dramatic development unfolded as concerns over the security situation escalated, with team members instructed to halt participation and depart Tashkent immediately.
The Israeli national judo team was forced to withdraw from the Tashkent Grand Slam in Uzbekistan and leave the country immediately following a directive from Israel’s Shin Bet security agency, amid heightened tensions after the launch of Operation Roaring Lion against Iran.
The dramatic development unfolded as concerns over the security situation escalated. The delegation, which included Olympic silver medalist Raz Hershko and fellow national team standout Gili Sharir, had traveled to Uzbekistan to compete in one of the first major tournaments of the 2026 season. The Tashkent Grand Slam is considered an important early-year event, offering valuable ranking points and international experience.
According to the directive, team members and Israel Judo Association chairman Moshe Ponte were instructed to halt participation and depart Tashkent immediately due to security concerns. The team complied and flew to a destination in central Europe. The Israel Judo Association did not issue an official response at the time of the report.
Before the withdrawal, Sharir had come within one victory of securing a bronze medal. She advanced deep into the repechage rounds but ultimately fell in the consolation final to France’s Manon Deketer, who is ranked 10th in the world. A total of 11 Israeli judokas had competed across Friday and Saturday before the decision was made.
Hershko, who was scheduled to compete on the final day of the tournament, did not step onto the mat following the security order. The Olympic medalist had been one of the delegation’s central figures and a leading contender in her weight class.
Israel's judo successes
Israeli judo has long been one of the country’s most successful and consistent Olympic sports, delivering medals and international recognition over the past three decades. From Yael Arad’s historic silver medal in 1992 to the golden triumphs of recent years, the program has built a reputation for toughness, discipline, and unity.
Under the steady leadership of the Israel Judo Association, the men’s and women’s teams have become regular contenders at European Championships, World Championships, and Olympic Games. Even amid geopolitical challenges, the sport continues to serve as a source of national pride and resilience.
In accordance with security and safety guidelines, the team’s next planned competition is now expected to be the Grand Prix in Linz, Austria, scheduled for later this week.
