Israeli Eurovision Contestant Yuval Raphael Reflects on Survival, Music, and Controversy

Yuval Raphael, Israel’s Eurovision contestant, never imagined she would be on the world stage after surviving the deadly attack at the Nova music festival in Israel on October 7, 2023. During that attack, Hamas gunmen killed around 1,200 people and took 251 hostages; Raphael survived by hiding under bodies in a bomb shelter for eight hours. The trauma of that day led her to pursue a professional singing career, embracing life and new experiences. Now, at 24, she is set to perform ‘New Day Will Rise’ at Eurovision, despite still carrying shrapnel in her leg. Raphael faces significant controversy, as protests and calls to ban Israel from the competition have intensified due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where over 52,800 people have been killed since the attacks. The European Broadcasting Union enforces strict rules against political statements at Eurovision, and Raphael refrains from discussing her ordeal during the competition. Despite warnings for Israeli fans to avoid displaying national symbols and reports of hostility at the event, Raphael remains focused on her performance and the contest’s message of unity through music. She acknowledges the pressure and expectations but is determined to represent her country with pride and resilience.