Eurovision 2025 Faces Protests, Security Response in Basel Over Israel Participation

The Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland, has become a focal point of controversy due to Israel's participation amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Several national broadcasters, including Ireland's RTÉ, have called for discussions about Israel's future involvement in Eurovision, with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) promising to hold broader talks after this year's event concludes. Pro-Palestinian protests have been widespread, with heightened security measures in place, including over 1,300 Swiss police officers and additional forces from neighboring countries, as authorities brace for potential demonstrations and threats. During the opening ceremony's 'turquoise carpet' event, Israeli contestant Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the October 7 Hamas attack, was met with protests featuring Palestinian flags and hostile gestures, including a throat-slitting gesture that led the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation to file a complaint with Swiss police. The EBU emphasized its commitment to keeping Eurovision a positive and inclusive event despite the global tensions, while Israeli officials have warned citizens to avoid protests and public displays of Israeli symbols in Basel. Overall, the contest illustrates the intersection of cultural events with complex geopolitical conflicts, drawing varied reactions from broadcasters, participants, and local authorities.