Eurovision crowd protests during Israeli contestant performance

The Eurovision Song Contest faced renewed controversy on Tuesday after audience members protested during the performance of Israeli contestant Noam Bettan at the semi-final event in Vienna.

Despite opposition from several participating countries and the boycott of the competition by five member states, organisers allowed Israel to compete in this year’s contest. During Bettan’s performance of the song Michelle, chants of “stop the genocide” could reportedly be heard from sections of the crowd during the live broadcast.

According to reports citing Austrian media, two individuals were removed from the venue over the protest chants. Videos circulating on social media also appeared to capture the slogans being shouted during the televised performance.

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The incident comes amid wider demonstrations in Vienna against Israel’s participation in the competition. Protesters gathered in the city earlier this week, with some displaying symbolic coffins during rallies condemning Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza.

Several countries have boycotted this year’s Eurovision contest in protest, including Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain. Some broadcasters in participating nations also declined to air the event, replacing Eurovision coverage with alternative programming focused on Palestine-related issues.

Eurovision director Martin Green defended the coexistence of protests and the event, saying it reflected democratic values and freedom of expression.

Despite the controversy, Bettan advanced to the Eurovision final after qualifying through combined jury and public voting. He joins contestants from several other countries competing in Saturday’s grand final.

The debate surrounding Israel’s participation follows continued international criticism over the war in Gaza, where thousands of Palestinians have reportedly been killed since the conflict escalated in October 2023.