Israel's Noam Bettan advanced to the final despite anti-Israeli demonstrations. Spain and Ireland boycotted the contest over political objections.
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The 70th Eurovision Song Contest final took place Saturday in Vienna, Austria, amid heightened security and widespread political tensions surrounding Israel's participation in the competition.
Israeli singer Noam Bettan qualified for the final after performing in the semifinals on May 12 and May 14, despite anti-Israeli chants and protests during his performance. Bettan sang "Michelle," delivering a multilingual performance. According to reports, the singer has been under heavy security for days, accompanied by a protective cordon managed by a former Mossad agent.
The contest drew significant political opposition. Spain and Ireland boycotted the event, citing political disagreement with Israel's participation. Pro-Palestinian activists staged demonstrations in Vienna's city center during the semifinals and continued protests on the day of the final.
On Saturday, approximately 3,000 pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in Vienna to protest Israel's involvement in the competition. The demonstration began at Westbahnhof station, with participants marching through several city districts along Mariahilfer Straße and past the Wiener Stadthalle, the venue hosting the contest, before concluding at Arik-Brauer-Park.
Austrian authorities implemented enhanced security measures around the Wiener Stadthalle. A substantial police presence was deployed to manage security and traffic control throughout the demonstration route. The final began at 21:00 local time.
Organizers stated that the competition demonstrates the strength of democracy and freedom, according to statements from the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation, ORF, which organized the event. Despite the political controversy and boycotts, the organizing body proceeded with the contest as scheduled.
Greece, Finland, Belgium, Sweden, Moldova, Israel, Serbia, Croatia, Lithuania and Poland qualified for Saturday's final. San Marino, Georgia, Portugal, Estonia and Montenegro were eliminated.
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