Israel has consented to modifying the words of their proposed entry for the Eurovision song competition following concerns raised by organizers over verses that seemed to allude to the 7 October assault by Hamas.
The competition, scheduled for May 7-11 in Malmö, Sweden, has the authority to disqualify participants who violate its policy of political impartiality. Kan, the national broadcasting organization of Israel, is responsible for selecting the country’s representative.
The top entry from Israel is “October Rain,” a heartfelt song performed by singer-songwriter Eden Golan.
According to information released to the press and later verified by Kan, the song contains phrases like “There is no longer any air to breathe” and “They were all innocent children” – possibly referencing the individuals who sought refuge in shelters as Hamas militants attacked and abducted individuals at a music festival and other locations, which sparked the conflict in Gaza.
Kan announced that it had requested the writers of October Rain and the runner-up, Dance Forever, to make revisions to their lyrics while still granting them creative expression. The chosen song will be submitted to the Eurovision committee.
The organization responsible for organizing Eurovision, the European Broadcasting Union, stated that they were reviewing the lyrics but has not yet responded to a request for comment on Kan’s decision.
The broadcaster in Israel stated that it has accepted to implement the modifications following a solicitation from the president of the country, Isaac Herzog.
Kan said that the president stressed the importance of Israel taking a strong stance and standing proud against those who wish to exclude and reject them, especially during this time when they face opposition. The president also emphasized the need to raise the Israeli flag in all international platforms this year.
Source: theguardian.com
