Boos and Protests Greet Israeli Eurovision Contender in Basel

Israel's Eurovision contestant Yuval Raphael faced a mixed reception during her semi-final performance in Basel, Switzerland, on May 16, 2025. While her song "New Day Will Rise" advanced to the final, some audience members expressed their dissent through boos and the display of Palestine flags. The incident unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing protests against Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. Protesters argue that Israel's presence is inappropriate given the current conflict in Gaza. One eyewitness, Dimitri K. (@chxlldd on Twitter), whose video footage captured the event, stated, "It was a very tense atmosphere." While the protests highlight the complex geopolitical situation, Raphael's advancement to the final underscores her talent and the enduring appeal of the Eurovision competition. The event serves as a stark reminder of the intersection between politics and popular culture on a global stage. The final will be a significant event, given the context of the semi-final.

Meduza

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