Iran champion in Olympic protest

Where does this article say anything about religion?

Isn't it possible that Iran's sanctions against Israel are on humanitarian grounds?

No.

If Miresmaili was really opposed to Israel then he should have gone out there and kicked the Israel's ass. That's what Judo champions are SUPPOSED to do!

absolutely; exactly

But that's the garbage policy from Iran and sometimes also other countries...

and the sports to lose...

Why not?

I am not saying I support this protest-- but it is clearly a political act, not a religious one.

a political act based on a religious tenet in observance of the sanctions against Israel which is considered a zionist intrusion in the middle east.

I'm with e on this one. A political act based on a religious tenet in observance of political sanctions? Can you be a little more specific on exactly where religion comes in?

Couldn't you say the same thing about the actions of Rosa Parks or Nelson Mandela?

No.

Why not?

You're kidding, right? Why isn't an olympic athelete from Iran forfeiting his match against an Isaraeli due to the fact that his home country hates jews different from the actions of Rosa Parks and Nelson Mandela? That the question you need help with??

You didn't read your own article.

He is not forfeiting his match due to the "fact his home country hates jews". He is foreiting the match "in solidarity with the Palestinians."

I am not sure if you are aware of this, but the Israeli Government and the Palestinians have been engaged in a horrible political dispute over land. Many people, including non-religious people and even some Jewish people, believe that Israel has acted irresponsibily and even brutally in this conflict.

Many of us boycotted South Africa in the 70's and 80's for the political reasons. At the time I was religious, but the fact I supported these boycotts had nothing to do with my religion.

Your posts on this thread say more about your prejudices than his. The article says "Israeli citizen" (a political designation) not "Jew" and doesn't even mention religion. You are the one who read religion into this.

I do believe Iran is overreacting - we're talking about the Olympics, world sports, not a battleground for politics.

I agree with you there Rick.

Iran and McGentrix are both overreacting. Let's move on.

exactly

I also agree with Rick. What does nationality or religion or politics have to do with kicking ass? Judo is a competition between people not countries!

the judoka finally pulls out from his withrew.

The sport wins.