**Israel's Controversial Eurovision Journey Continues Amid Protests**

Yuval Raphael's performance was marred by protests, reflecting broader controversies as the event unfolds.

Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest has always stirred debate, and this year is no exception. Shortly before qualifying for the grand final scheduled for Saturday, the Israeli act, represented by Yuval Raphael, experienced protests during a dress rehearsal. The event, taking place in Basel, Switzerland, saw Ms. Raphael perform her song "New Day Will Rise" while demonstrators interrupted with whistles and large Palestinian flags, raising questions about the intersection of music and politics.

The six protestors were swiftly removed from the St Jakobshalle arena, with the Swiss broadcaster SRG SSR confirming that all flags are permitted, albeit with size restrictions. While Raphael's performance continued without disruption, the backdrop of her success is set against the ongoing hostilities in Gaza and international discussions calling for greater scrutiny of Israel's participation in the cultural celebration.

EU broadcasts from countries like Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia have voiced their concerns on Israel's involvement, which coincides with intensified military actions in the region, further complicating the narrative around the contest. Amid these events, Raphael shared with the BBC that her team prepared her for potential audience distractions, playing background noises during rehearsals as a unique strategy to cope with the anticipated protests.

Despite the surrounding strife, Raphael's performance has secured her a spot in the finals, currently regarded by bookmakers as a strong contender for victory. The announcement of her success prompted her to blow a kiss to the sky, a gesture that may symbolize her dual role as an artist in the limelight and a participant in a much larger crisis.

In stark contrast, the results of the second semi-final has seen countries eliminated, with Australia and Ireland facing disappointment, igniting conversations about each nation's historic Eurovision legacies amid evolving public tastes. As for the show's finalists, the lineup includes diverse acts from across Europe, each contributing to the colorful tapestry of the contest, which embraces both creativity and the socio-political climate surrounding its performances.

With an expected viewership ready to tune in on Saturday evening for the grand final, questions linger about the implications of such a politically charged event. Will the contest serve as a platform for expression or a reflective backdrop to ongoing geopolitical strife? Regardless, the blending of music and politics remains at the forefront as Eurovision reveals more than just the artistry of its performances; it lays bare the challenges faced by nations in the global arena.