The Canadian Friends of Israel Hockey (CFIH) has been sending hockey equipment and advocating on behalf of the Israeli hockey program since 1991, the year of Israel’s inclusion as a member nation in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). The recent decision by the IIHF to preclude Israel from participating in three World Championships is regrettable in that it excludes one country and rewards those who wish to sanction it. If the IIHF can be faulted, it is for not working with Israeli security authorities sooner to ensure the safety and security of all participants at all sanctioned tournaments. Nonetheless, we understand the reaction of the Israeli Olympic committee among others in Israel to challenge the decision.
We would however ask our community not to rush the judgment. IIHF President Luc Tardif has been a strong proponent and champion of the Israeli hockey program. President Tardif attended the 21st Maccabiah in 2022 where he toured all hockey facilities in Israel and witnessed the final game, the Men’s final, between Canada and the United States at the PIAS Arena in Jerusalem in front of over 10,000 spectators. Subsequent to which, the IIHF awarded the 2023 Division III Group B Women’s tournament to Israel in T’nuvot which was held in March of last year. Prior to the events of October 7th, Israel was scheduled to host the 2024 IIHF U20 Men’s tournament which has since been relocated to Bulgaria. Furthermore, the IIHF was instrumental in propping up the Ice Hockey Federation of Israel for three years when Israel was experiencing governance and financial issues. The CFIH is pleased with the resolution of the Mens U20’s and will continue to work with the IIHF and other stakeholders to ensure that the proper solutions can be found to ensure that the Israeli National team can participate in all IIHF hockey tournaments as soon as possible.
