On Tuesday in Vienna, the first finalists of Eurovision were determined. Israel, Finland, Lithuania, and seven other countries advanced to the next stage, while the contest became the center of political disputes and protests due to Israel's participation.
The first semifinal of the Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna concluded with ten countries advancing to the final. Among them are Finland, considered one of the favorites of the competition, as well as Israel and Lithuania.
According to the voting results, the finalists include Belgium, Greece, Croatia, Israel, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Serbia, Finland, and Sweden.
At the same time, Estonia, Georgia, Montenegro, Portugal, and San Marino did not qualify for the competition.
One of the most discussed topics of this year's Eurovision has been Israel's participation amid the war in the Gaza Strip. Several countries decided to boycott the contest.
Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain refused to participate in Eurovision, while Ireland, Slovenia, and Spain also chose not to broadcast the show on television.
It is important to understand that this year's contest is taking place with the lowest number of participants in over 20 years — there has never been such a small number of countries since the expansion of Eurovision in 2004.
On stage, Israel's representative Noam Beatan performed the song "Michelle" in three languages — Hebrew, French, and English. The performance was met with active support from some audience members in the hall, who waved Israeli flags.
At the same time, protests took place in the center of Vienna. Several dozen pro-Palestinian activists set up symbolic coffins in protest against the war in Gaza.
The contest director, Martin Green, later stated that what is happening demonstrates the possibility of free expression of opinions in Austria.
Despite the political backdrop, the musical part of the contest remains the focus of millions of viewers across Europe. Participants are now preparing for the next stage and the battle for victory in the final.
Latvia will perform in the second semifinal on May 14.
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