In first, Israeli anthem plays in Abu Dhabi after judo gold

Israel's national anthem was played at a judo tournament in Abu Dhabi on Sunday after one of its athletes won gold in what was thought to be a first in the Gulf emirate.

The playing of the national anthem and Israeli Sports Minister Miri Regev's attendance at the tournament were the latest milestones in the country's bid for rapprochement with Arab states.

Regev cried and sang along as the anthem played, according to footage broadcast on Israeli television.

Her presence in the United Arab Emirates capital also marked the first time a minister from Israel attended a sports event in the Gulf, Israeli officials said.

It was the first time an Israeli delegation participated there under its national flag, after the International Judo Federation warned UAE organisers they would cancel the competition unless all athletes were allowed to participate on an equal footing.

Last year, tournament organisers in Abu Dhabi banned the flag and national anthem of Israel, which has no diplomatic ...