Eurovision organizers reject Israel song entry as too political over Oct. 7 lyrics – report

Eurovision organizers are reportedly pushing back against the song Israel is hoping to send to the contest later this year, rejecting its lyrics as too political.

While officially the song has yet to be released, Israel Hayom reported earlier this week that the song slated to be performed by Eden Golan in Malmo in May is titled “October Rain” and is expected to reference Hamas’s October 7 massacre in southern Israel.

Ynet reports today that the EBU believes the song is too political, as the contest’s official rules bar any political statements during the competition.

A spokeswoman for the Kan public broadcaster tells The Times of Israel only that the TV station “is involved in dialogue with the EBU in regards to the song that will represent Israel at the Eurovision.” The song was slated to be officially revealed during a TV broadcast early next month.

While some activists have issued calls to bar Israel from the Eurovision this year over the ongoing war, the EBU has continued to maintain that the country will be allowed to participate.