Eden Golan Earns Spot in Eurovision Final Amidst Protests
News Desk
Sweden: Israeli singer Eden Golan secured a spot in the final of the Eurovision Song Contest through a public vote, following a night marked by protests in Malmö, Sweden, where the event was hosted, in solidarity with Gaza.
Golan faced a mixed reception during the semi-final, with both cheers and boos from the audience. Reflecting on her performance, she expressed gratitude for the support and excitement to represent Israel.
Additionally, the second semi-final saw Latvia, Austria, The Netherlands, Norway, Greece, Estonia, Switzerland, Georgia, and Armenia also advancing to the final.
This indicates that Malta, Albania, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, and San Marino were the six nations that were dropped.
As the conflict between Israel and Hamas approaches its seventh month, there has been debate around Israel’s participation in Eurovision amid an increase in civilian casualties and a worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Thursday afternoon, slogans of “Free Palestine” were heard as smoke canisters colored like the Palestinian flag were set off in Malmö’s major square.
There was also a tiny pro-Israel demonstration.
Golan has been restricted to her room when she is not performing, despite the fact that the protests were mainly peaceful. Armed police officers are stationed outside the hotel where Golan is staying.
The singer declared that “nothing will deter” her from competing in the competition following a nasty welcome during dress rehearsals.
Additionally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported Golan on social media ahead of the semifinal.
He spoke in Hebrew, “Eden, I want to wish you success.”
“What do you know? You have already achieved success since, in addition to showcasing your proud and excellent Eurovision entry, you are effectively combating a nasty wave of antisemitism and defending the State of Israel in the process.
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