The International Billiards & Snooker Federation (IBSF), the world governing body of non-professional snooker, has notified the United States Snooker Association (USSA) and other IBSF members that this year's IBSF World Snooker Championships in Egypt have been canceled.

The reigning United States National Snooker Champion, Sargon Isaac, who sensationally won the title at his first attempt back in May at the Embassy Billiards Club in San Gabriel, California, was due to represent the United States alongside runner-up Ajeya Prabhakar once the Championships got underway in Sharm El Sheik, Egypt, from November 4-16.

The Board of the Egyptian Federation of Billiards Sports decided in its meeting yesterday to apologize for not being able to host the 2012 IBSF World Snooker Championships due to "the current security issues, paralleled with a new Minister and regime, and a critical economic situation".

Sargon Isaac (pictured right) with Ajeya Prabhaka after the final of this year's United States National Snooker Championship Photo © SnookerUSA.com

The president of the IBSF, Pascal Guillaume, said in response to IBSF members: "It is not for me to comment on this decision, but rather to find a solution to our dilemma and provide you with the competition you all expect before the end of this year.

"You will all be aware that time is very short, but I assure you that the IBSF Board will work to explore all possibilities."

The IBSF World Snooker Championships are the pinnacle of non-professional snooker, with events for Men, Ladies and Seniors (over 40s). The winner of the Men's event is awarded a place on the following season's professional World Snooker Main Tour.