Ireland's Basketball Team Refuses Handshake with Israel Amid Antisemitism Row

The refusal came after an Israeli player's accusations, leading to a heated match in Riga, Latvia.

Ireland's women's basketball team refused to shake hands with their Israeli opponents during a EuroBasket 2025 qualifier, citing inflammatory comments made by an Israeli player.
The controversy began when Israeli player Dor Saar accused the Irish team of antisemitism, leading to Ireland's decision to avoid pre-match formalities.
Despite calls for a boycott, the game proceeded in Riga, Latvia, with Israel winning 87-57.
Basketball Ireland reported Saar's comments to FIBA, expressing full support for their players' decision.
The incident has sparked discussions on the intersection of politics and sports, with both teams expressing disappointment over the situation.