Australia's ice hockey federation said on Tuesday it had cancelled a planned international qualifying tournament due to safety concerns, with local media reporting the decision was linked to the participation of the Israeli national team.

Australia’s ice hockey federation has pulled out of hosting a lower-tier men's world championship event featuring Israel's national team, citing security concerns.

The Melbourne leg of the International Ice Hockey Federation men's world championship has been cancelled over major security concerns caused by growing anti-Israel sentiment in Australia.

Ice Hockey Australia (IHA) has dumped the world championships in Australia over fears Israel’s presence will make it too dangerous for players and fans.