An Arab singer has triumphed in an Israeli television talent contest.

Haifa-born Nissren Kader took the top spot in the "Eyal Golan is Calling You" contest, a search for the country's best performer of Mizrahi music. Mizrahi culture was brought to Israel by Jews who were exiled from Arab lands, in particular in the aftermath of Israel's independence.

Ms Kader, 25, sang in Hebrew and was named the show's co-winner, sharing her prize with a Jewish singer.

She said she was "so proud" of her victory. "I never imagined that they (Jews) would like me to the degree that they did.

Ms Kader told Associated Press: "I'm an Arab citizen in a state that has troubles and disagreements between Jews and Arabs, and they saw something else.

"They saw another side."

Mr Golan is now helping the singer produce her first album.