Israel has qualified for the Eurovision grand final this Saturday, but the journey was marred by protests that sought to disrupt the pivotal event. Yuval Raphael, a 24-year-old artist, performed “New Day Will Rise” during a preview show on Thursday, when six demonstrators flaunting large Palestinian flags attempted to cut her act short. The St Jakobshalle arena's rules allowed flags but imposed size restrictions, leading to the quick ejection of the protesters.
Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest has been contentious, especially given the ongoing military actions in Gaza and the severe impacts on humanitarian supplies. Recently, broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia have questioned Israel's role. Protests have also occurred in Basel, Switzerland, where this year's contest is taking place.
Despite these disturbances, Raphael's performance remained uninterrupted, and she proceeded to qualify for the final without further incidents. In a pre-competition interview, she mentioned preparing for distractions during her rehearsals by practicing alongside recorded audience noises. When it was announced she would move on to the final, Raphael clasped her hands and blew a kiss to the sky, a moment celebrated despite the backdrop of unrest.
Her song, "New Day Will Rise," has gained traction, currently standing among the favorites to win in the betting odds. In the recent semi-final, other acts that advanced included Armenia, Denmark, Finland, and Greece, while notable eliminations included Australia and Ireland.
The UK, as one of the "Big Five" financially supporting Eurovision, automatically qualifies for the final, showcasing their act "Remember Monday." The group mesmerized with a whimsical performance, reminiscent of musical theatre elegance, overshadowing recent criticisms of UK performances in previous years.
This year's contest promises the usual flamboyant spectacle, complete with elaborate costumes and performances that explore various themes. Notable acts include Erika Vikman, whose energetic anthem concludes the show, projecting her to high standings among the predicted top entries.
As the countdown to the grand final approaches, it’s clear that Eurovision is not just a musical event; it has also become a platform for political expression, personal storytelling, and cultural resilience in the face of adversity.
