Fact Check: Israel was on Eurovision before 2025

Israel Was on Eurovision Before 2025: A Fact-Check

Introduction

The claim that "Israel was on Eurovision before 2025" pertains to Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, a popular international music competition. This assertion suggests that Israel has been involved in the contest prior to the upcoming 2025 event, which is set to take place in Basel, Switzerland. This article will explore the context of Israel's participation in Eurovision, the details surrounding the 2025 contest, and the implications of recent events related to Israel's involvement.

What We Know

1. Historical Participation: Israel has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest since its debut in 1973, making it a long-standing participant in the competition. As of 2025, Israel has entered the contest 46 times and has won the competition four times, with its most recent victory occurring in 2018 59.

2. 2025 Contest Details: For the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, Israel will be represented by Yuval Raphael, who will perform the song "New Day Will Rise." The selection process involved the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC/Kan) and was conducted through the show HaKokhav HaBa L'Eirovizion 14.

3. Recent Context: Israel's participation in Eurovision has been marked by controversy, particularly due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and protests related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The 2025 contest is expected to see protests against Israel's participation, similar to previous years 36.

4. Yuval Raphael's Background: Yuval Raphael is a notable figure not only for her music but also for her personal history, having survived a terrorist attack in October 2023. This background has added a layer of complexity to her representation of Israel at Eurovision 47.

Analysis

The claim that Israel was on Eurovision before 2025 is factually accurate, as the country has a long history of participation in the contest. However, the context surrounding its participation is crucial for understanding the implications of this claim.

Source Evaluation

• Wikipedia: The Wikipedia page on Israel's participation in Eurovision 1 provides a comprehensive overview of the country's history in the contest. While Wikipedia can be a useful starting point, it is important to verify the information against primary sources or more authoritative references due to potential biases and the collaborative nature of the platform.

• News Outlets: Articles from reputable news organizations like BBC 27 and NPR 4 offer insights into the current situation surrounding Israel's participation, including the social and political ramifications. These sources are generally considered reliable, but it is essential to consider their editorial slant, especially in politically charged contexts.

• AP News and Reuters: These outlets 36 provide coverage of the protests and controversies related to Israel's participation, highlighting the ongoing tensions that accompany its involvement in the contest. Both are established news organizations with a reputation for journalistic integrity, though they may also reflect certain biases based on their audience and editorial choices.

Conflicts of Interest

While the sources cited are generally credible, it is important to note that media coverage of Israel often reflects broader geopolitical narratives. This can influence how events are reported and interpreted, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Therefore, readers should approach such articles with an understanding of potential biases.

Methodology and Evidence

The evidence supporting Israel's participation in Eurovision is well-documented through historical records and official announcements from the IPBC/Kan. However, the ongoing protests and public sentiment surrounding Israel's involvement in Eurovision require further exploration. Additional information regarding the nature and scale of these protests, as well as public opinion in both Israel and the host country, would provide a more nuanced understanding of the situation.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that "Israel was on Eurovision before 2025" is accurate, as Israel has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest since 1973. Key evidence supporting this conclusion includes Israel's historical participation record, its multiple victories, and the confirmed representation of Yuval Raphael in the upcoming 2025 contest.

However, it is essential to recognize the complex context surrounding Israel's participation, particularly the geopolitical tensions and protests that often accompany its involvement in the contest. While the historical facts are clear, the implications of these events are multifaceted and may vary based on individual perspectives.

It is also important to acknowledge limitations in the available evidence. While the historical data is well-documented, ongoing protests and public sentiment are dynamic and may not be fully captured in current reporting. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider multiple sources to form a well-rounded understanding of the situation.

Sources

1. Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 - Wikipedia. Link
2. Israel qualifies for Eurovision final amid protests. BBC. Link
3. Israel's presence still roils Eurovision a year after major protests. AP News. Link
4. Yuval Raphael, a Hamas attack survivor, represents Israel at Eurovision. NPR. Link
5. Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest. Wikipedia. Link
6. Swiss Eurovision stirs familiar controversy over Israeli entry, LGBTQ+ flags. Reuters. Link
7. Yuval Raphael: Israel's Eurovision entry says she has practised being booed. BBC. Link
8. Eurovision 2025 Israel: Yuval Raphael - "New Day Will Rise". Eurovision World. Link
9. Eurovision 2025 Israel profile: New Day Will Rise by Yuval Raphael. Aussie Vision. Link
10. Israel in Eurovision Voting & Points. Eurovision World. Link