Security measures have been heightened at the ongoing 2024 World Aquatics Championships in Doha, Qatar, as the tension between Israel and the host nation looms in the background. Despite the small Israeli contingent being accompanied by soldiers and other security precautions, the conflict has largely remained dormant with no major incidents reported.

However, the underlying tension became more evident during the last individual podium of the championships when Anastasia Gorbenko won a silver medal in swimming, marking Israel's historic second-ever medal in any discipline at the World Aquatics Championships. The cheers turned to boos as Gorbenko proudly represented Israel during her interview, casting a shadow over the closing moments of the event.

Media reports suggest that there was a mix of booing and cheering when Gorbenko was announced as the silver medalist, with the negativity amplified during the interview conducted in English. Allegations also surfaced regarding the Arabic-language announcer not mentioning Israeli swimmer Daria Golovaty's name or country during an event walkout, further highlighting the underlying tensions between the nations.

The conflict between Israel and Qatar stems from Qatar providing diplomatic office space to Hamas, the organization responsible for a deadly incident in southern Israel. The arrangement has drawn criticism from the Israeli government, adding fuel to the already strained relations between the two countries.

As the aquatics championship unfolds, the anticipation for the medals ceremony remains high, with concerns over potential tensions escalating further in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Qatar.