Eurovision Song Contest

The first-choice song, “October Rain,” was not approved by the EBU, reportedly because it contained a direct reference to Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

"We talked about Public Diplomacy and I think it's important for Israel to appear in Eurovision, and this is also a statement because there are haters who try to expel us from every stage,” he added.

The Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation, Kan, clarified that Israel had no intention of changing the lyrics. 

Actress Helen Mirren, who portrayed former Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir in the 2023 film “Golda,” was among the 400+ signatories.

Eden Golan, whose family moved from Israel to Russia when she was six and moved back here two years ago, already has a professional career abroad.

Eurovision Luxembourg congratulated Golergant, stating, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to [Golergant] and wish them continued success on their journey ahead.”

Despite the controversy, Israel is still placing high in the preliminary betting charts, a widely watched measure of likely success in the competition.

Jorunn Folkvord, a member of the Oslo City Council on behalf of the communist "Red" Party protested against Israel during the pre-Eurovision Song Contest in Norway.

Shaul Greenglick, 26, performed on "Israel's Rising Star" on Dec. 3 while on furlough from his mobilization in the war against Hamas.

Moriah Angel received a 96/100 from the panel of judges for her rendition of Andra Day’s 2015 song “Rise Up” and garnered 70.37% of votes online. Her performance left judges in awe.