Eurovision bosses break silence over Israel row after 'fake cheers and booing' claim

Viewers of the were "shocked" as Israel's performer, October 7th survivor Yuval Raphael, received a polarised reception that seemed like roaring applause on TV. Before kicking off, controversy shrouded Eurovision due to debate over Israel's inclusion, with some pushing for their removal from the popular contest. Yet, when the Israeli participant took to the stage third in line, the crowd gave her a lukewarm welcome.

Amidst this reaction, UK commentator couldn't resist commenting to British audiences after Yuval Raphael's performance: "I'm not sure what you're hearing at home, but it was a mixed response." Norton's remark followed allegations that Eurovision bosses artificially boosted applause to mask audience boos during Israel's New Day Will Rise rehearsal performance on Friday night. Eurovision officials addressed the furore, stating: "For the Eurovision Song Contest, the host broadcaster SRG SSR is working with the 'audio sweetening' method, which is common practice for major international productions," reports

The Eurovision team has defended their audio techniques, explaining: "This process helps to harmonise the sound of the transitions between moderations, video clips and the individual acts and to create a consistent soundscape for the TV audience. It is used exclusively for the technical rounding off of the programme."

They further clarified: "This process is used equally and identically for all acts. The competition and its results are not affected in any way."

The revelation sparked a flurry of comments on social media following the broadcast.

A viewer took to X, previously known as Twitter, to express their disbelief: "The fake clapping during Israel... like we don't know the majority of the crowd is booing. #eurovision2025."

Another was sceptical, posting: "Is it just me or did Eurovision add canned screams and cheers during and after Israel's performance? Because the few times they showed the audience, it didn't seem like they were the ones doing it. Plus, it was weird how the sound kept coming and going."

The controversy surrounding Israel's participation intensified after more than 70 former Eurovision artists called for their exclusion due to the country's military actions against Palestine.

's Yuval Raphael advanced to the grand final of the 2025 Eurovision following her performance in Thursday night's semifinal.

The 24-year-old from Ra'anana, a survivor of the October 7 Nova music festival massacre, turned in a strong performance of her emotional ballad, New Day Will Rise, in front of the crowd in Basel, Switzerland.

Yuval hid under dead bodies for hours on October 7 until she was rescued.

But other fans fired back at the criticism, with one fan blasting: "Right now, thousands are protesting in Basel-not against terror-but against Yuval Raphael, an Israeli survivor of Hamas' massacre, for daring to sing about hope on the Eurovision stage.

"Yes. That's the enemy now: 24 y/o girl who lived through hell and chose music over hate."