The 2024 Eurovision kicks off in Malmo, Sweden, with an opening act that subtly hints at Israel’s ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza — which has heavily overshadowed the song contest.
Swedish singer Eric Saade, whose father is Palestinian and who is not a contestant this year, performs his 2011 Eurovision song “Popular” while wearing a keffiyeh wrapped around his wrist — a Palestinian symbol often used in pro-Palestinian and anti-Israel protests.
Contestants, performers and fans are barred from displaying any flags that do not represent the countries competing in the contest, or from displaying or making any political gestures.
Last week, Saade expressed anger at the fact that the Palestinian flag was banned, but defended his performance in the broadcast regardless.
Today is the first semifinal. Israel’s Eden Golan will compete in the second semifinal on Thursday evening.
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From the Liveblog of
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
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