The Makkabiade planned for July was postponed to 2026 due to the war between Israel and Iran. More than 8,000 athletes were reported for the competitions in Israel.
There have been mutual shelling in the past few days and at all nights. Rakets from Israel were fired to Iran, the other way around, there were air alarm in many Israeli cities.
Decision after advice with Security cabinet
Alon Meyer, the President of Makkabi Germany, the umbrella organization of Jewish sports clubs, told the Sportschau that there had been fear of having to cancel the event for a few days. “After a long conversation with the security cabinet of Israel” the decision then made on Monday (June 16, 2025).
“The situation in Israel is confusing. It is very, very critical. In this respect, the security of the athletes could no longer be guaranteed”, so Meyer for the reason for the shift.
“On the one hand, I am deeply disappointed because you have prepared and happy. But in the end these are little things. First of all, I am proud and war like that when I see what kind of small army, for us, for our western values”, “, added Meyer.
Escalation after attack on nuclear systems
The conflict, which has been smoldering for decades, escalated last Friday when Israel started a long -planned attack to throw Iran back in his pursuit of an atomic bomb for at least some time. High -ranking military of Iran, who sees the annihilation of Israel as a state goal, were specifically killed.
Alon Meyer, President of Makkabi Germany
Meyer called the attack of Israel “a must at the present time”. Nevertheless, he mourns every victim, regardless of the Nationatal and Religion.
Foreign Office advises against traveling
The already tense security situation in the Middle East has been dramatic in the past few days. The Federal Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany strongly advises against traveling to Israel.
Makkabiade every four years in Israel
The first makkabiade was in Palestine in 1932. Since 1953 it has been organized every four years in 1948 for independent Israel. Measured by the number of athletes, according to the organizers after the Olympic Games and the Paralympics, it is the third largest sporting event worldwide.
The Makkabiade 2025 was planned for the period from July 8th to 22nd in various cities of Israel. Around 8,000 athletes from more than 50 nations should compete in 45 sports.