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Eurovision Final Proceeds in Vienna as Thousands Protest Israel’s Entry

Police call the city calm after large marches, reflecting boycotts by several broadcasters over Israel’s inclusion.

Overview

  • - The 70th Eurovision Song Contest holds its final Saturday in Vienna with Israel competing after the European Broadcasting Union kept the country in and advanced neutrality reforms.
  • - Several thousand people marched in Vienna under the slogan “Keine Bühne für den Völkermord,” and police, who deployed a large force, described the situation as very calm.
  • - Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland chose not to participate, with some also declining to broadcast the show, citing the war in Gaza and objections to Israel’s inclusion.
  • - Germany’s Sarah Engels performs second with the song “Fire,” and bookmakers place her near the bottom of the odds for a top result.
  • - Sweden’s finalist Felicia said she is ready to perform after fainting from dehydration during a rehearsal, and betting markets point to Finland, Australia and Greece as the front-runners.