Bambie Thug Breaks Down Over Israel’s Eurovision Qualification
Ireland’s representative in the Eurovision Song Contest, Bambie Thug, was left in tears after Israel secured a spot in the final set to take place on Saturday.
“It is a complete overshadow of everything, goes against everything that Eurovision is meant to be,” expressed Bambie Thug to reporters prior to the event at Malmo Arena in Sweden. “I cried with my team.”
The 31-year-old singer and songwriter made a statement by sporting a keffiyeh and waving Irish flags, while calling on the European Broadcasting Union to exhibit “conscience” and “humanity.”
Controversy Surrounding Israel’s Entry
Bambie Thug will be performing “Doomsday Blue” in the final, while Israel’s representative, Eden Golan, will present her song “Hurricane.” Golan’s track underwent modifications after the original version, “October Rain,” was deemed too political by the EBU.
Despite the contest’s theme of “united by music,” this year’s event has sparked protests from Palestinians and their supporters, who argue that Israel should be excluded due to its actions in the Gaza conflict.
Global Backlash and Protests
Thousands are anticipated to march through Sweden’s third-largest city for the second time this week, advocating for a boycott of Israel and a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. In Finland, a group of protesters disrupted the headquarters of public broadcaster YLE, urging withdrawal from the contest because of Israel’s involvement.
In England, venues are canceling Eurovision events following pressure from Palestine protest groups, with some establishments citing staff safety concerns. The Duke of York cinema in Brighton called off its viewing party, stating it was due to safety worries for both staff and patrons. The Brighton Palestinian Solidarity Campaign hailed the decision as a “massive win.”