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'Next time in Jerusalem': Israeli winner adds political jab to Eurovision Song Contest
Freshly-crowned Eurovision queen Netta Barzilai struck fire with her victory speech, as she invited viewers to see next year's song contest in the occupied Jerusalem, not the internationally-recognized Israeli capital Tel Aviv.
Barzilai, who was a favorite to win the contest, clinched first place with her song "Toy," riding the wave of female empowerment. But it was not only the catchy tune that made Twitter erupt after the show but also the highly polarizing statement Netta made on stage after being proclaimed as the winner.
"Thank you so much for choosing difference, thank you so much for accepting differences between us... I love my country, next time in Jerusalem!" the singer said.
Some users were quick to point out that Barzilai betrayed the message of acceptance and diversity by ending on a statement in tune with Israeli propaganda.
"How can Eurovision celebrate diversity and inclusion when steps away Palestinians are getting shot in the head? Eurovision is about to get very ugly," one Twitter user wrote.
Netta made it clear her music is for Israel’s propaganda. And she declared 2019 to be in Jerusalem. How can @Eurovision celebrate diversity and inclusion when steps away Palestinians are getting shot in the head? #Eurovision is about to get very ugly.
— SR (@shartzie) May 12, 2018
Tbh I was a bit put off by Netta's comment about Jerusalem. Let's hope that they have the decency to do this in Tel Aviv instead... I doubt it though... #Eurovision
— vee
