EUROVISION was plunged into a favouritism row last night as it emerged bosses used fake applause to cover up boos for Israel.
The song contest’s organisers in Basel drowned out the crowd during a rehearsal of Yuval Raphael’s performance of New Day Will Rise on Friday night.
It followed a backlash over the country’s inclusion in the contest owing to the conflict in Gaza.
The European Broadcasting Union agreed to have discussions about its participation next year.
One fan wrote on X: “I have a huge issue with the EBU silencing the booing during Israel’s performance and adding fake cheers to make it sound like there’s a positive reception from the audience.
“EBU is a public service broadcaster whose purpose is to serve the public, not to silence them.”
Another fan argued: “Why do you mute the audience’s boos and replace them with fake applause effects? Where are your ethical values?”
It came amid strengthened security measures at the St Jakobshalle arena in Basel, Switzerland.
Flags from countries not competing and whistles were banned after pro-Gaza protesters interrupted 24-year-old Yuval at a rehearsal on Thursday.
Before last night’s final, a warm-up act urged the audience: “Cheer for everybody. The Eurovision tribe is one of loving human beings. We do not hate. We just love.”
Host Hazel Brugger added: “Please give every single performer everything you’ve got.”
Last night, about 300 pro-Palestine flags protesters gathered in the Eurovision Square spectators’ entertainment area in the city centre, waving flags and banners.
One read: “Dancing on the graves of Gaza.”
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