IOC bans Iraqi team from Olympics for 'political interference'

BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) - The International Olympic Committee has banned Iraq from competing in the upcoming Olympic games in Beijing, China, - the result of what that body says has been ongoing political interference by the Iraqi government in the sports movement.

"We deeply regret this outcome, which severely harms the Iraqi Olympic and Sports Movement and the Iraqi athletes, but which is unfortunately imposed by the circumstances," said the letter, signed by two IOC officials.

The move stems from an Iraqi government decision in May to suspend Iraq's Olympic Committee and form a temporary committee to handle its duties.