On Thursday evening, Israel's representative Yuval Raphael not only qualified for the grand final of Eurovision, taking place on Saturday, but she also faced significant protests as the criticisms of Israel's military actions heat up.
Israel Advances to Eurovision Final Amid Protests
Israel Advances to Eurovision Final Amid Protests
Israel qualifies for Eurovision final despite protests during rehearsals as tensions rise over ongoing military actions in Gaza.
In a dramatic turn of events, Yuval Raphael, 24, delivered her performance of "New Day Will Rise" at a preview show, when six protestors with oversized Palestinian flags interrupted the rehearsal at St. Jakobshalle arena in Basel, Switzerland. While Ariel's performance continued unimpeded, it marked a stark contrast to the atmosphere surrounding Eurovision this year, given the ongoing military operations in Gaza.
The Swiss broadcast organization SRG SSR swiftly removed the protestors, ensuring that Raphael’s act could proceed. In light of the current tensions, various European broadcasters, including entities from Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia, have initiated discussions about Israel's participation in Eurovision.
Despite the background discontent, during a recent interview, Raphael mentioned using recorded audience noises—including booing—to rehearse for potential distractions during her performance. Upon being announced as a finalist, she expressed joy by clasping her hands together and blowing a kiss upward.
Raphael's song has garnered attention from bookmakers, indicating it may be a potential winner amidst the ongoing turmoil. The second semi-final also saw the qualification of ten other acts, including notable participants from Armenia, Austria, and Denmark. Meanwhile, countries like Australia and Ireland faced elimination, continuing their struggles in recent Eurovision contests.
This year’s event is characterized by a display of traditional Eurovision flair, from extravagant costumes to whimsical performances. Among the standout acts, Finnish singer Erika Vikman captivated audiences with her fiery club anthem.
The grand final promises to showcase a variety of unique acts and has ignited fresh debates regarding the intersection of art and political expression within this year's competition. Broadcasting live from Basel, the Eurovision events continue to unfold against a backdrop of political tension and artistic resilience.
The Swiss broadcast organization SRG SSR swiftly removed the protestors, ensuring that Raphael’s act could proceed. In light of the current tensions, various European broadcasters, including entities from Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia, have initiated discussions about Israel's participation in Eurovision.
Despite the background discontent, during a recent interview, Raphael mentioned using recorded audience noises—including booing—to rehearse for potential distractions during her performance. Upon being announced as a finalist, she expressed joy by clasping her hands together and blowing a kiss upward.
Raphael's song has garnered attention from bookmakers, indicating it may be a potential winner amidst the ongoing turmoil. The second semi-final also saw the qualification of ten other acts, including notable participants from Armenia, Austria, and Denmark. Meanwhile, countries like Australia and Ireland faced elimination, continuing their struggles in recent Eurovision contests.
This year’s event is characterized by a display of traditional Eurovision flair, from extravagant costumes to whimsical performances. Among the standout acts, Finnish singer Erika Vikman captivated audiences with her fiery club anthem.
The grand final promises to showcase a variety of unique acts and has ignited fresh debates regarding the intersection of art and political expression within this year's competition. Broadcasting live from Basel, the Eurovision events continue to unfold against a backdrop of political tension and artistic resilience.
