Will Israel win Eurovision despite international controversies and tensions?

Find out how Israel, despite international controversies and tensions, could position itself as one of the favorites to win the next Eurovision song contest. Let’s analyze the political and cultural issues surrounding its participation and explore the country’s chances of success in this iconic musical competition.

Background to Israel’s participation in Eurovision

This year, Israel’s Eurovision journey was marked by controversial and tense moments, which captured international attention. Israeli artist, Eden Golan, was selected to represent her country with the song “Hurricane”. However, the original version of this song had to be changed due to direct references to recent political events, such as the October 7 Hamas attack in Israel.

Impact of protests and threats

Eden Golan’s qualification for the final was also surrounded by protests. Thousands of people mobilized in Malmö, Sweden, where the competition was taking place, to protest Israel’s participation, due to the ongoing unrest in Gaza. These protests sparked a debate about the place of politics in an event meant to unite cultures through music.

Security and measures during the event

In response to the tensions, security measures have been increased not only inside the Malmö Arena but also throughout the city. The European Broadcast Union, organizer of Eurovision, ensured that the event went off without incident, by banning unofficial flags and political banners inside the concert hall. Despite these precautions, the semi-final saw interruptions and external protests reflecting strong political sentiments against Israel’s participation.

Israel’s chances of winning Eurovision

Despite the controversies, Israel remains a strong contender for Eurovision, having won the contest several times in the past, with the last victory being in 2018. This year, Israel was listed as one of the favorites to win the competition, placing behind Croatia and ahead of Switzerland according to the different odds of the betting sites. The compelling performances and popularity of the song “Hurricane” may well overcome the political and social challenges faced.

Conclusion on Israel’s participation

Israel’s journey in this edition of Eurovision highlights the challenges of maintaining a cultural event focused on unity and apoliticism in a complex global context. If political tensions have added obstacles to competition, they have also underlined the importance of music as a means of expression and unity, beyond differences. The final will be the final theater to determine whether Israel can triumph despite the controversies.