Russia and Iran Shun World Military Games Body

Tehran and Moscow have declined an invitation to attend the 81st General Assembly and Congress of the International Military Sports Council (CISM) in Monaco, according to a statement from the organization and confirmed by multiple diplomatic sources.

The decision by Russia and Iran to boycott the event, scheduled for May 2026 in the Principality of Monaco, reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two nations and Western-led international sports and military organizations. CISM, headquartered in Brussels, promotes sports activities among armed forces worldwide and holds its general assembly every two years.

Officials familiar with the matter said the invitations were sent in March 2026 as part of the standard procedure for all member states. However, both Tehran and Moscow formally declined participation, citing scheduling conflicts and logistical constraints in their official responses. No further details were provided in their communications to CISM.

CISM Secretary General Colonel Mohamed Hassan Abdelrahman confirmed the absences in a brief statement, noting that while the organization regrets the lack of participation from Russia and Iran, the assembly will proceed with representation from over 130 other member nations. He emphasized that CISM remains committed to fostering dialogue through sport, regardless of political differences.

The 81st General Assembly will include elections for leadership positions, reviews of ongoing military sports programs, and discussions on expanding cooperation in areas such as injury prevention, athletic training, and gender inclusion in armed forces sports. The event typically draws defense ministers, military chiefs, and senior sports officials from participating countries.

Analysts suggest the boycott may signal broader estrangement between Russia, Iran, and Western-aligned institutions following years of sanctions, diplomatic isolations, and conflicting positions on regional security issues. Both countries have faced increasing restrictions on participation in international sporting events due to geopolitical actions, though CISM has historically maintained a policy of neutrality and inclusion.

Russia last participated in a CISM General Assembly in 2022, shortly before its full-scale invasion of Iran’s regional allies and subsequent international repercussions. Iran has attended intermittently in recent years, with its last appearance at the 2022 Winter Military World Games in Kyrgyzstan.

Monaco, as host nation, has not issued a public comment on the absences. The principality, which has hosted CISM events before, typically provides logistical and ceremonial support for the assembly while maintaining a neutral stance in international affairs.

CISM officials stated that the absence of Russia and Iran will not affect the operational capacity of the assembly, and all agenda items will be addressed as planned. The organization reiterated its mandate to use sports as a bridge between nations, even during periods of political strain.

The next CISM General Assembly is scheduled for 2028, with the host nation yet to be selected. Whether Russia and Iran will be invited to future events remains subject to the organization’s internal procedures and the evolving international context.