Israel has secured its place in the Eurovision final scheduled for Saturday, despite protests attempting to disrupt rehearsal performances due to escalating tensions in the region.
Israel Advances to Eurovision Final Amidst Protests
Israel Advances to Eurovision Final Amidst Protests
Eurovision's grand final sees Israel's participation marred by ongoing protests.
In an unexpected turn of events, Israeli singer Yuval Raphael found herself at the center of attention during the Eurovision dress rehearsal as she performed her song "New Day Will Rise." Just as she began, six protestors brandishing oversized Palestinian flags made their way into the St Jakobshalle arena, attempting to drown out the act with whistles. The organizers, Swiss broadcaster SRG SSR, confirmed that the protestors were swiftly ejected from the venue, allowing Raphael to continue her performance without further incidents.
The event has not been without controversy, as Israel’s participation in Eurovision has reignited discussions around its military actions in Gaza. Demonstrations in various European cities, including Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia, have aimed to question Israel's involvement amidst calls for humanitarian considerations. Small protests have also taken place in Basel, where Eurovision is currently being held.
Despite these distractions, Yuval Raphael expressed her determination by preparing for unforeseen circumstances during her rehearsals, stating, “My team has played audience noises over my rehearsals so I can practice when there are distractions in the background.” Upon learning of her qualification for the final, she celebrated by clasping her hands and blowing a kiss towards the sky. Her song has also gained traction, with bookmakers placing it among the favorites for the win.
Meanwhile, the second semi-final revealed ten other countries advancing, including Armenia, Denmark, and Finland. Some surprising results emerged, such as Australia being eliminated despite a previously warm reception of their performance. Ireland's elimination marks its continuing struggle in the contest, having failed to qualify for eight of the last ten years.
The UK's Eurovision act, Remember Monday, also debuted, showcasing a lively performance of their song "What The Hell Just Happened?" with a mesmerizing visual theme reminiscent of a Bridgerton-era soirée. They will enter the final automatically, as part of the "Big Five" nations providing significant financial contributions.
As anticipation builds for the grand final, favorites are emerging, with the Swedish entry KAJ's song "Bara Bada Bastu" currently leading predictions for a win. The final will feature an eclectic mix of performances, enriched by traditional Eurovison drama including dazzling costumes and powerful vocal displays, all set to unfold on Saturday evening at the same venue. Tune into BBC One or BBC Radio 2 for live coverage of this year's exciting finale.
The event has not been without controversy, as Israel’s participation in Eurovision has reignited discussions around its military actions in Gaza. Demonstrations in various European cities, including Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia, have aimed to question Israel's involvement amidst calls for humanitarian considerations. Small protests have also taken place in Basel, where Eurovision is currently being held.
Despite these distractions, Yuval Raphael expressed her determination by preparing for unforeseen circumstances during her rehearsals, stating, “My team has played audience noises over my rehearsals so I can practice when there are distractions in the background.” Upon learning of her qualification for the final, she celebrated by clasping her hands and blowing a kiss towards the sky. Her song has also gained traction, with bookmakers placing it among the favorites for the win.
Meanwhile, the second semi-final revealed ten other countries advancing, including Armenia, Denmark, and Finland. Some surprising results emerged, such as Australia being eliminated despite a previously warm reception of their performance. Ireland's elimination marks its continuing struggle in the contest, having failed to qualify for eight of the last ten years.
The UK's Eurovision act, Remember Monday, also debuted, showcasing a lively performance of their song "What The Hell Just Happened?" with a mesmerizing visual theme reminiscent of a Bridgerton-era soirée. They will enter the final automatically, as part of the "Big Five" nations providing significant financial contributions.
As anticipation builds for the grand final, favorites are emerging, with the Swedish entry KAJ's song "Bara Bada Bastu" currently leading predictions for a win. The final will feature an eclectic mix of performances, enriched by traditional Eurovison drama including dazzling costumes and powerful vocal displays, all set to unfold on Saturday evening at the same venue. Tune into BBC One or BBC Radio 2 for live coverage of this year's exciting finale.
