Seventy-two former Eurovision contestants have united in an open letter advocating for Israel and its national broadcaster KAN to be banned from the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest, responding to the heightened tensions surrounding Israel’s participation amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza. This letter, addressed to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), criticises the controversies that marred last year’s event in Sweden, describing it as “the most politicised, chaotic and unpleasant” in the competition’s history.

The signatories accuse KAN of complicity in what they term “Israel’s genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza,” as well as the longstanding conditions of apartheid and military occupation affecting the Palestinian people. Israel has firmly rejected these allegations, asserting it is not committing genocide, while judicial proceedings related to these claims are currently ongoing at the International Court of Justice.

Last year, KAN faced backlash after its representative, Rotem Achihun, was filmed joking with Israeli soldiers while appearing to inscribe a “message for Gaza” on a tank shell. The situation escalated when Irish contestant Bambie Thug accused the network of inciting violence against her, leading her to withdraw from dress rehearsals. The EBU subsequently confirmed discussions with KAN concerning its treatment of participants.

Among the prominent figures signing the letter are Mae Muller, who represented the UK in 2023, along with Ireland’s 1994 champion Charlie McGettigan and Portuguese singer Fernando Tordo. They argue, “By continuing to platform the representation of the Israeli state, the EBU is normalising and whitewashing its crimes.” Former Maltese contestant Thea Garrett further commented, “It can’t be one rule for Russia and a completely different rule for Israel. You bomb, you’re out,” referencing the EBU’s previous decision to expel Russia from the competition following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Israel’s participation in the 2023 contest was also controversial, with Eden Golan representing the country. Initially, it was reported that Golan considered withdrawing after being asked to modify her song “October Rain” due to its perceived references to recent violent events. For the 2024 contest, Israel will be represented by Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the October 7 attacks, who will perform “New Day Will Rise.”

The discourse surrounding Israel’s role has gained traction amidst public concern, with broadcasters from several countries, including Spain, Iceland, and Slovenia, questioning Israel’s participation. The EBU has acknowledged the concerns stemming from “the current conflict in the Middle East” and stated it is maintaining communication with the countries participating in this year’s event.

Last year, over 56,000 individuals signed a petition requesting Israel’s exclusion from the competition. The ongoing debate reflects deepening divisions and sentiments regarding the intersection of politics and the arts, particularly in a platform as prominent as Eurovision. The letter aims to unite voices against what the signatories perceive as a double standard by the EBU in managing its relationships with member countries.

The Independent has reached out to KAN and the EBU for further comments on this unfolding situation.

Source: Noah Wire Services