Kuwait prolongs sports shutdown over Middle East security risks

Kuwait has decided to keep all sports activities and events suspended until further notice following a government committee's assessment of the Middle East conflict and the heightened security and logistical risks arising from it.

Minister of Youth and Sports Tareq Aljalahmah said on Thursday the decision followed consultations among relevant authorities, who agreed sporting activities should remain on hold until conditions allow for their safe and orderly return.

"Based on the committee’s recommendation ... it was decided to continue the suspension of sports activities and events for the time being, until the assessment of the situation is completed and appropriate conditions are confirmed," Aljalahmah was quoted as saying by the Kuwait News Agency.

-Reporting Ashraf Hamed Atta; Editing by Ken Ferris/Reuters