Iran may face action over no-show at Olympic event

Beijing: Iran could face action from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) if it pulled out of the men's swimming event because of Israel, officials said on Sunday.

Iranian swimmer Mohammad Alirezaei skipped Saturday's 100-metre breastroke heats, which also featured Israel's Tom Beeri.

International Olympic Committee spokeswoman Giselle Davies said she was unaware of the incident, but reiterated IOC policy.

"Under the spirit of respect and fairplay, if it is confirmed that he deliberately pulled out then the IOC would take it seriously," Davies said.

Israel considers Iran a threat because of the Islamic nation's disputed nuclear programme.