The International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) has announced significant sanctions on Israeli participation in its events. This decision comes in the wake of the tragic killing of Ammar Hamayel, a 13-year-old Palestinian Muay Thai athlete, prompting IFMA to take a firm stand against actions that endanger children and undermine the core values of global sport.
The Tragic Loss of Ammar Hamayel
Ammar Hamayel, recognized by IFMA as a “youth peace ambassador” and a member of Palestine’s national youth Muay Thai team, was killed on June 23 during an Israeli military operation in the West Bank. According to a report by Defense for Children International – Palestine, Ammar was shot in the back while walking with a friend in the village of Beitin, near Ramallah. The report further states that Israeli soldiers fired from a concealed position, subsequently detaining the wounded boy for two hours before transferring him to a Palestinian ambulance. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Palestine Medical Complex in Ramallah.
IFMA`s Sanctions Against Israel
In a direct and immediate response to this incident, IFMA has banned the display of all Israeli national symbols—including the flag, anthem, and emblems—at any IFMA or IFMA-sanctioned competition. While Israeli Muay Thai athletes are still permitted to compete internationally, they must do so under the designation of “Neutral Individual Athletes.” This status has previously been applied to competitors from Russia and Belarus following the invasion of Ukraine.
Furthermore, the imposed sanctions prohibit Israel from hosting any IFMA or IFMA-affiliated events until further notice. The Muay Thai federation clarified that these measures are not directed at Israeli athletes, who remain “valued members of the IFMA family.” Rather, these actions represent a peaceful protest against behaviors that threaten the well-being of children and contradict the fundamental principles of global sport.
A Powerful Call to Action
“When a child, a youth peace ambassador, is killed, silence is no longer an option,” stated IFMA President Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan. “This is not just a tragedy — it is a call to action. We cannot stand by when the innocent pay the price of conflict.”
These sanctions will remain in effect indefinitely and will undergo periodic review by the IFMA Executive Board. The organization reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to peace, inclusion, and human dignity, stating, “We will continually review our policies in accordance with global developments, always guided by our mission to be a force for good in a divided world.”
Oliver Croft