“Eurovision final begins amid protests over Israel’s participation The final of the Eurovision Song Contest began on Saturday under tight security amid continuing criticism over Israel’s participation. The contest has faced pressure for a third consecutive year because of Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip and elsewhere, with Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia boycotting the event in protest. A demonstration against Israel’s participation was planned ahead of Saturday’s final, while pro-Palestinian groups held an outdoor concert on Friday under the slogan “No Stage for Genocide”. Congolese-Austrian artist Patrick Bongola, one of the organisers, said: “Inviting Israel on such a beautiful stage as the Eurovision Song Contest stage is an affront to all the people who believe in humanity, who believe in love and togetherness.”
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