Israel’s Yuval Raphael performs her song “New Day Will Rise” at the grand final of the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland. “Thank you, Europe, Am Yisrael Chai,” she shouts after completing her song.

Pedro Sanchez said that the exclusion of Russia, but not Israel, meant that Eurovision organisers were “allowing double standards”.

Israel's Eurovision Song Contest 2025 entry, Yuval Raphael, has been surrounded by controversy, as the likes of Graham Norton and fans at home have been left divided

Israel’s Yuval Raphael is keeping a low profile at the Eurovision Song Contest. The 24-year-old singer has done few interviews or appearances during Eurovision week, as Israel’s participation in the pan-continental pop music competition draws protests for a second year.

"To have more experiences, to be happy and to live fully."On Thursday, the 24-year-old will sing her song, New Day Will Rise, at the Eurovision semi-final with shrapnel still in her leg.The rules of the European Broadcasting Union – which is in charge of Eurovision – means no political statements can be made.