Samarkand (Sports Desk): At the ongoing World Chess Olympiad Samarkand 2026 in Uzbekistan, Pakistan decided not to participate in its scheduled match against the Israeli team. The match between the Pakistan and Israeli teams was scheduled to take place today; however, Pakistan avoided playing against Israeli players in accordance with its government policy. According to President of the Chess Federation of Pakistan Zeeshan Ali Naqvi, Pakistan’s policy regarding Israel is clear, and therefore it is not possible to compete against the Israeli team contrary to the government’s position. He said the decision not to participate in the match against Israel was taken as an expression of solidarity with the Palestinian people. Teams from 203 countries are participating in the international chess event being held in Uzbekistan.
