Saudi, Qatari Fencers Stranded in Jakarta After Middle East Flight Cancellations
Jakarta. Dozens of fencing athletes and officials from Middle Eastern countries remain stranded in Jakarta after flights to the region were canceled following Israeli and US military strikes on Iran.
A total of 23 athletes from Saudi Arabia, five athletes and officials from Qatar, as well as two representatives from the Iraqi and Uzbek fencing federations, have been unable to return home after competing in Indonesia.
Their return flights had been scheduled for Sunday, but upon arriving at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, they were informed that services to their destinations had been suspended due to the escalating conflict.
“They were supposed to fly home on Sunday, but when they reached Soekarno-Hatta Airport, they were told there were no flights because of the war involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. It appears they may have to remain in Indonesia until the conflict subsides,” said Firtian Judiswandarta, secretary general of the Indonesian Fencing Association.
In addition, two referees from Saudi Arabia and Iran are reportedly stranded at Doha International Airport due to the absence of onward connecting flights.
The athletes had participated in the Asian Cadet and Junior Fencing Championships 2026, held at the Jakarta International Convention Centre from Feb. 20 to 27, 2026.
The tournament featured 801 athletes from 26 countries and also served as a qualification event for the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
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