Israel Advances to Eurovision Final Despite Protests and Political Tensions

Israeli singer Yuval Raphael has secured a spot in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 grand final after performing her song ‘New Day Will Rise’ during the second semi-final. The performance followed a disrupted dress rehearsal, where six audience members protested by waving oversized Palestinian flags and blowing whistles. The protesters were quickly removed by security, and the show continued without further incident. Raphael’s participation has attracted attention due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with several European broadcasters calling for debate over Israel’s inclusion. Despite the controversy, her performance was well-received, and bookmakers rank her among the top contenders.

Other finalists from the second semi-final include acts from Armenia, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, and Malta. Notably, Australia was unexpectedly eliminated, despite being considered a strong contender. The UK act, Remember Monday, will perform in the final as one of the ‘Big Five’ countries. The final will take place on Saturday in Basel, Switzerland, and will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC Radio 2. The event features traditional Eurovision spectacle, from elaborate costumes to theatrical staging, continuing its reputation as one of Europe’s most flamboyant cultural celebrations.