Eurovision 2024: Added security measures as organisers brace for anti-Israel rallies

euronews (in English)

From Eric Saade to Ireland's Bambie Thug, on stage protests have taken place as authorities in Swedish city of Malmö are on full alert, with the second semi-final taking place today.

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00:00Authorities are on full alert following heightened tensions leading up to this year's Eurovision

00:08semi-final.

00:11The competition continues to be overshadowed by protests against Israel's participation.

00:19There have been calls for Israel to be excluded because of its conduct during the war against

00:25The last song was Elektra's Banner.

00:43Tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters could be seen gathering outside the venue.

00:51Israel's representative 20-year-old Eden Golan was reportedly confirmed to her hotel room

00:57while she isn't performing due to heightened security concerns.

01:01The Israeli singer was forced to change the title of her song, originally called October

01:24Rain, in apparent reference to Hamas' October 7th attack.

01:28Palestinian flags were banned at the venue after Sweden's contestant Erik Sade, whose

01:33father is of Palestinian origin, wore a traditional Middle Eastern scarf during his opening performance.

01:39The scarf has become an international symbol of pro-Palestinian sentiments.

01:44The competition's final will take place this Saturday.

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