Thousands of supporters of Hamas gathered in Malmö to protest against Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. The Swedish police estimated that between eight and 10,000 demonstrators were demanding the removal of Israeli contestant Eden Golan from the final event. Golan, representing Israel with the song “Hurricane,” has faced security concerns and has been under protection from Israel’s top security agency, Shin Bet.
The 20-year-old singer has been confined to her hotel room during the contest and was escorted by a convoy of approximately 100 Swedish police officers to the final event to protect her from the protesters. Israel’s ambassador to Sweden condemned the protests, stating that they were led by extremist groups and criticised the Eurovision audience for booing Golan.
Despite facing protests and criticism from fellow contestants, Golan remained resilient, expressing pride in representing her country on social media. The protests in Malmö are part of a larger trend of anti-Israel sentiment during the Eurovision contest, with Greta Thunberg even joining in on the demonstrations.
Malmö has experienced significant demographic shifts, with a growing Muslim population contributing to a rise in anti-semitism and terrorism. This has led to a decline in the Jewish population, with some feeling unwelcome in their own city. Overall, the protests and tensions surrounding Israel’s participation in Eurovision highlight the ongoing conflict and divide in the region.
