The city of Malmo, Sweden saw a surge of energy as more than 10,000 people marched against Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. Amidst public outcry and demonstrations, Israeli singer Eden Golan managed to secure a spot in the competition’s final after a public vote. Despite facing mixed reactions during rehearsals and the semi-final, Golan expressed her gratitude and pride in representing her country on a global stage.

The controversy surrounding Israel’s participation in Eurovision persists amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions and civilian casualties in Gaza. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators in Malmo voiced their support for Gaza with chants of “Free Palestine,” setting off smoke canisters in the colors of the Palestinian flag. In contrast, a smaller demonstration in support of Israel also took place, adding to the charged atmosphere surrounding the event.

Despite the challenges and tensions surrounding her participation, Golan remains determined to persevere and showcase her talent in the competition. Even receiving a message of support from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, praising her courage in the face of adversity. As the competition progresses, Golan’s song remains a contender in the eyes of bookmakers, with high expectations for her performance in the final.

The second semi-final saw an eclectic mix of performances from various countries, with standout acts like Croatia’s Baby Lasagna and Switzerland’s Nemo captivating the audience. Artists from Austria, Armenia, and Greece also made their mark, bringing a diverse range of music styles and performances to the stage. Notable accomplishments included Latvia and Georgia breaking their losing streaks by making it to the final for the first time in years.

The Eurovision Song Contest continues to be a platform for artists to showcase their talents and celebrate music on an international stage. With former Eurovision winners and veteran performers adding to the excitement of the event, the competition promises a thrilling finale. As the anticipation builds for the final night, audiences around the world await the outcome of this musical extravaganza, set to be broadcast live for viewers to enjoy.