Israel, Finland reach Eurovision final as five countries boycott music contest
Summary
Finland and Israel advanced to the Eurovision Song Contest final despite five countries boycotting the event due to Israel’s participation. The contest featured 35 countries this year, the lowest number since 2004, with several political protests occurring alongside the music competition in Vienna.Key Facts
- Finland and Israel made it to the Eurovision final from the first semi-final held in Vienna.
- Five countries—Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Iceland—boycotted the contest because of Israel’s involvement.
- Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia refused to broadcast the contest entirely.
- A total of 35 countries competed, the fewest since the contest expanded in 2004.
- Pro-Palestinian activists held protests in Vienna during the event.
- Israel’s performer, Noam Bettan, sang a song called "Michelle" in Hebrew, French, and English.
- Other countries advancing included Belgium, Croatia, Greece, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Serbia, and Sweden.
- Austria is hosting the contest for the third time, following victories by its performers in previous years.
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