Thousands of people peacefully demonstrated today on the streets of Malmö, Sweden, protesting Israel’s participation in the Eurovision, just hours before the country’s entry is due to be presented in the competition. “I’m a fan of Eurovision and my heart breaks, but I will boycott it,” explained Hilda, a 30-year-old Swede. “I can’t enjoy knowing that Israel is participating, while all these children are dying. I believe it’s unfair,” she added, speaking to reporters from the French News Agency.

Israel’s participation in the European competition, the final of which will be held on Saturday in Malmö, is causing tensions due to the war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Many in Europe have called for the country to be excluded. At the end of March, participants from nine countries, including the Swiss Nemo, one of the favorites, called for a permanent ceasefire.

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Israeli Eden Alene will participate tonight in the second semi-final with the song “Hurricane”. “It’s not fair. In my opinion, if they can exclude Russia, why can’t they do it for Israel?” questioned Marwa Mustafa, a young protester. “People are here for Eurovision, to try to celebrate. There’s nothing to celebrate. We say we are a democracy, but no one does anything,” commented 29-year-old Mustafa Mustafa, who had his shoulders covered with a Palestinian scarf.

About 5,000 demonstrators marched from the central square of Malmö, holding Palestinian flags and signs with slogans like “Free Palestine” and “EUR legitimizes genocide”. Climate activist Greta Thunberg, known for her pro-Palestinian positions, also participated in the march. Many families also took part. “My children are six and nine years old, an age where they want to see Eurovision but this year we are completely boycotting it,” said 31-year-old Cecilia Brundel.

Ten of the 16 countries competing tonight will advance to the final on Saturday, where they will face Sweden (the title holder), the Big Five (Germany, Spain, France, Italy, UK), and the other 10 qualifiers from Tuesday’s semi-final.