The measure was taken following calls from the international scientific community for measures against Israel’s activities in the Palestinian territories, according to a letter sent to the national press.

It also includes a ban on Israeli science students from attending future editions of the event.

At the Olympiad’s international board meeting, held on August 18, representatives of the 64 participating countries voted by a significant majority to suspend the participation of an official Israeli team; however, Israeli students will be able to continue competing individually, according to reports.

In a letter signed by Indian and other scientists requesting the measure which was circulated before the board meeting reads: “The Olympic spirit demands that all member countries comply with international law and respect the human rights of students from other countries. We regret to note Israel’s repeated violations of these norms,” the statement added.

The letter states that Israel prevented a Palestinian delegation from attending the event and prevented students from Gaza from traveling.

It also indicated that the only Palestinian participant this year was from Jenin, a city where Israel recently conducted a massive demolition exercise.

In the letter, the scientific community requested that the State of Israel remain suspended “until it stops obstructing the participation of Palestinian students in the Olympiad and complies with its obligations under international law.”

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