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.

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.

The international event set to be held in Melbourne this year has been pulled over what organisers said were security fears due to anti-Israel protests in Victoria.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Executive Council of Australian Jewry Co-Chief Executive Alex Ryvchin discusses the government’s decision to cancel a major ice hockey tournament in Melbourne.