Israel backs down: Eurovision song lyrics to be changed

Israel has backed down after attempting to enter the Eurovision Song Contest—where songs containing political messages are prohibited—with entries that referenced the October 7 attacks by Hamas.

Israel's state broadcaster, Kan, has agreed to change the lyrics of the songs following a call from President Isaac Herzog.

It had been reported that the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) might reject the song submitted by Israel, titled 'October Rain,' due to its political content. It was also alleged that Israel's alternative submission, a second song titled 'Dance Forever,' was also blocked by the EBU on the grounds that it contained references to October 7.

The state broadcaster Kan had previously announced that the lyrics of the songs would not be changed.

PRESIDENT HERZOG ISSUED A CALL

However, in a statement released by Kan yesterday, it was announced that they had agreed to change the lyrics following the call made by President Herzog.

The statement said, "Especially at a time when those who hate us are trying to push the State of Israel aside and boycott it on every stage, the President emphasized that Israel must proudly raise its voice, hold its head high, and raise its flag in every forum in the world."

Accordingly, the Israeli state broadcaster has contacted the songwriters of both tracks and requested that they 'revise the lyrics while maintaining artistic freedom.'

News Source: 12punto

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