16.05.2025 15:30
Israel's Eurovision representative Yuval Raphael advanced to the final stage to be held in Basel, Switzerland, despite pro-Palestinian protests. Despite the protesters' attempts to disrupt the event, Raphael performed his song "New Day Will Rise" while being protected by security personnel.
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Israel's Eurovision representative Yuval Raphael, despite pro-Palestinian protests, secured his place in the final stage to be held in Basel, Switzerland, by passing the semi-finals last night.
While Raphael was singing his song "New Day Will Rise," a group of protesters carrying large Palestinian flags tried to disrupt the contestant with whistles. According to Swiss broadcaster SRG SSR, security personnel quickly intervened and removed the protesters from the venue.
Security measures have been heightened to the maximum level. The Israeli National Security Council warned its citizens in Basel of potential threats, stating, "Such international events pose a primary target for various groups."
Gilad Kariv, the head of the Diaspora Affairs Committee in Israel's Knesset, said, "Israeli supporters in Basel are at serious risk. Every Israeli should download the emergency app on their phone and avoid sharing their location on social media."
The Israeli government has established a special crisis desk for the weekend of the final. It has been reported that two officials will be continuously present on the ground and in constant communication with Israeli citizens 24 hours a day.
Israel's participation in the competition has sparked significant controversy due to its attacks on Gaza and the obstruction of humanitarian aid passages. Broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia have called for Israel's removal from the competition.
Yuval Raphael stated that he was prepared for the protests, saying, "My team prepared me for such situations by playing distracting sound effects during my rehearsals."
Despite all the controversies, betting companies are listing Raphael among the favorites of the competition. Israel has previously won Eurovision four times.
A total of 26 countries will compete in the final to be held on Saturday night. Similar security measures were taken during last year's Eurovision held in Malmö, Sweden.
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