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Israel’s Noam Bettan Progresses in Eurovision Amid Protests

Noam Bettan, representing Israel, has advanced in the Eurovision Song Contest. His performance was met with protests, including shouts of "stop the genocide," and reportedly caused a delay in the show's start.

Variety Music·May 13, 2026·via Variety Music

Israel’s Noam Bettan Progresses in Eurovision Amid Protests

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May 13, 2026 12:33pm PT

Israel’s Noam Bettan Advances in Eurovision Song Contest Amid Protests

By Andrew Flanagan

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Andrew Flanagan

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Israeli performer Noam Bettan advanced in the annual Eurovision Song Contest as tensions mounted over his country’s participation, with protesters shouting “stop the genocide” and reportedly delaying the beginning of his performance.

Bettan was set to start his performance of the song “Michelle” when several audience members booed and shouted anti-Israel sentiments, while others chanted Bettan’s name in support. Organizers for Eurovision said that a few of the disruptive attendees were removed from the arena, and their shouts were edited out of the performance clip posted by Eurovision online.