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Yuval Raphael Prepares for Eurovision 2025 Final Amid Protests Over Israel’s Participation

The Israeli singer, a survivor of the 2023 Hamas attack, advances with her song 'New Day Will Rise' as the EBU defends its apolitical stance.

Yuval Raphael from Israel performs the song "New Day Will Rise" during the dress rehearsal for the Grand Final of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest, in Basel, Switzerland, Friday, May 16 2025.
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Overview

  • Yuval Raphael, representing Israel at Eurovision 2025, will perform in the grand final in Basel, Switzerland, on Saturday night.
  • Raphael, a survivor of the 2023 Hamas attack on the Nova music festival, emerged as a national figure after winning Israel's HaKokhav HaBa talent show in 2024.
  • Her song 'New Day Will Rise,' performed in English, French, and Hebrew, emphasizes themes of resilience and hope.
  • Protests have erupted over Israel’s participation, including an open letter signed by over 70 former Eurovision contestants calling for the country's removal from the competition.
  • The European Broadcasting Union has reiterated its apolitical stance, rejecting calls to exclude Israel and emphasizing Eurovision as a platform for cultural unity through music.