Every time in the Olympic Games we see Muslim players refuse to shake hands with Israeli athletes during the games. I am not sure if this is done because of a religious or a political reason?
In Islam we are asked to respond with better manner when someone greets us, as Allah said in the Quran: (And when you are greeted with a greeting, greet with one better than it or [at least] return it [in a like manner]. Indeed, Allah is ever, over all things, an Accountant.) 4:86
I am aware of the different opinions between the scholars regarding initiating Salam by saying Alsalam Alikum, but the vast majority said its allowed to respond to their salam and the strongest opinion is that you can initiate it too. However, I am not aware that any one said its not allowed to great them with other than Alsalam !
We all know in these events it's usually a universal greetings like hi or hello!
If it's a political move, I would say it's a poor one because it is bad publicity for Islam and Muslims, and it will not serve any cause in my opinion. So what are your thoughts?