Israel's Eurovision presence sparks outcry in Sweden before final of singing contest

By Melike Pala, Atila Altuntas

MALMÖ, Sweden (AA) - Protests against Israel's participation in the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest in Sweden, continue hours before the final begins.

Tens of thousands of people gathered in Malmö to protest.

Isabella Hellqvist noted Russia's exclusion from the competition due to its “special military operation” in Ukraine and deemed Israel's presence in the competition "unfair" despite Russia's exclusion.

"I think Israel should also be excluded because of what is happening in Palestine," she said.

Christine Hakansson said Israel's participation in the competition may lead to the "overlooking of its crimes committed in Palestine."

Hakansson argued that the decision is based on political reasons.

The Eurovision Song Contest's grand final will be held Saturday, with the organization of the EBU and Swedish state television SVT.

Demonstrations in solidarity with Palestine are taking place in Malmö, the city hosting the contest, which has become the center of protests and disapproval about Israel's participation.

*Writing by Gizem Nisa Cebi in Istanbul