Australia’s ice hockey federation says it cancelled a planned international qualifying tournament because of safety concerns, with local media reporting the decision was linked to the participation of the Israeli national team.

Multiple media outlets cited an internal email from Ice Hockey Australia (IHA) to the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) saying it couldn’t hold the tournament due to security concerns over Israel’s attendance.

IHA said in a statement that it decided to cancel the event, which was set to take place in Melbourne in April, after consultation with police and participating venues.

The statement did not mention Israel, with the body saying it could not comment on “global issues outside the sport”.

“The decision was primarily made to ensure the safety and security of athletes, volunteers, spectators, and other participants,” it said. “IHA does not shy away from making this decision with safety at the forefront.”