A new law proposed by MK Moshe Matalon would prevent individuals who did not do army or national service from representing the country in sporting events around the world. Exceptions would be made for individuals under special circumstances, such as handicaps, after being approved by the Minister of Culture and Sports.
According to Matalon, the IDF Educational Unit says that more and more Israelis are seeking exemptions from national service. "Athletes are role models to youth, and those who do not serve their country cannot have the privilege of flying the flag of their country," Matalon said.