Israel sent diplomats to assist citizens attending World Cup in Qatar and plans to launch temporary direct flights

Israel has dispatched diplomats to assist its citizens attending the World Cup in Qatar and plans to launch temporary direct flights there on Sunday, despite the fact that the countries have no formal relations.

Between 10,000 and 20,000 Israelis are expected to attend the month-long matches in the Gulf emirate, an unprecedented influx after years of only allowing low-key delegates.

After normalizing relations with the UAE and Bahrain in 2020, Israel has suggested that Qatar could follow if it shifts away from Tehran. Doha has ruled out such a possibility, stating that Israel must first make way for a Palestinian state.

In a sign of improved relations, a delegation from Israel’s foreign ministry will be permitted to provide consular assistance from Doha to its citizens attending the games.