Othman Al-Omeir, the editor of the news website Elaph, tweeted: 'I support Tahani Al-Qahtani, whether she wins or loses. It will be a disgrace [only] if she withdraws.'
The Iranian athlete who escaped his country's tyranny to compete against his Israeli opponent is 'story of bravery, friendship against all odds, and the true spirit of sport.'
An Israeli non-profit called 'Budo for Peace' brings together youth from a wide range of backgrounds to learn martial arts and develop tools for coexistence.
In a tournament in which 545 judokas from 83 countries competed, Israelis Ori Sasson and Peter Paltchik won the +100 kg and -100 kg categories ahead of Tokyo Olympics.
'We think it’s amazing that sports can unite people. People should take these athletes’ courage as an example,' said the Israeli Judo Association spokesman.
The Iranian judo star had exposed the Tehran regime's pressure on him to lose a bout at the World Championships in Tokyo to avoid competing against an Israeli.
The IJF said that the Iran Judo Federation was suspended from 'all competitions, administrative and social activities organized or authorized' by the IJF.
Iranian judoka admits the Islamic regime forced him to lose a match to avoid facing the Israeli competitor. More than anything, he wants to win the championship.
Paltchik dedicated his momentous achievement to the victims of the Pittsburgh synagogue massacre and to the Israeli victims of Hamas' terrorism near Gaza.
For years, Israeli athletes have faced boycotts, snubs and logistical hurdles related to sporting events hosted by Arab and Muslim countries. Finally, the IJF put its foot down.