Israel is taking no chances at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, where Israeli representative Eden Golan is scheduled to perform the song “Hurricane” during the second semi-final of the contest on May 9.
Kan News reports that the Shin Bet is providing Eden with a larger security escort than what normally accompanies an Israeli sports team competing internationally. In an effort to ensure better security, the size of the Israeli singer’s delegation will also be smaller compared to past years, and Shin Bet security sweeps of the venue are already being conducted.
Israel’s extra precaution comes at a time when there have been growing calls for a boycott of Israel’s participation in the event over its handling of its war against Hamas. In early March, spray-painted signs calling to “Free Gaza” appeared in the competition’s host city of Malmo, a day after Israel unveiled its song entry.
Despite these calls, the European Broadcasting Union announced in December that Israel would not be banned. However, the song initially submitted for the competition, “October Rain,” had to be replaced with its current version. The original was disqualified due to its lyrics, which were considered too political for alluding to the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.”
