The Qatari government has announced that Israeli citizens will be allowed to enter the country on Israeli passports for the first time ever.

After monthslong negotiations, Qatar has agreed to permit Israeli citizens with no other passports to attend the World Cup.

When purchasing World Cup tickets, Israeli fans will be issued a special ID number by the Qatari government that will allow them to apply for a visa to enter the Arab state.

There are currently no direct flights from Israel to Qatar, but plans are believed to be underway to allow Israelis to fly to the tournament.

Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid spoke of his joy at the arrangement between the two countries. He said: "We are bringing today another political achievement that fills the hearts of fans. I congratulate all the partners and await the beginning of the competition." 

Qatar and Israel have had a mixed diplomatic history. The two countries currently have a limited relationship but do maintain ties. Qatar previously severed its diplomatic relations with Israel after Operation Cast Lead in 2009.