The Israeli Olympic delegation is grappling with escalating threats as the 2024 Paris Games draw near. In a particularly alarming development, judoka Peter Paltchik, chosen to bear the Israeli flag at the Olympic opening ceremony, received a menacing e-mail inviting him to his own funeral.
Israeli media outlets report that swimmer Meiron Cheruti was also targeted with a similar message. The ominous invitation read, "You are invited to attend the funeral of Meiron Cheruti, deceased on July 27, 2024," accompanied by a link to the purported location of the event.
When previously asked by the Israeli media outlet Erev Tov about potential antisemitic incidents in Paris, given the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, and the enhanced security measures for the Israeli team, Paltchik expressed confidence in the safeguards in place. "I don't believe there's cause for concern," he stated. "I have full faith in the Israeli Olympic Committee, the International Olympic Committee, and the coordinated efforts of all security forces involved." He added, "I'm aware they're taking every precaution to ensure our safety, preparing for any possible scenario. From what I've gathered through public reports, there's already a substantial security presence on the ground dedicated to our protection."
