Eurovision 2025: "Free Palestine" Protests Erupt Amidst Clashes with Police

Pro-Palestine protests erupted during the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland, on May 17, 2025, as demonstrators were forcibly removed from the venue for chanting "Free Palestine" and displaying Palestinian flags during Israel's performance. Outside, a separate protest turned violent as Swiss police clashed with demonstrators who accused Eurovision of applying double standards by banning Russia in 2022 for its invasion of Ukraine, yet allowing Israel to participate despite its actions in Gaza. Footage from Gaza showed ongoing unrest, further emphasizing the protesters' concerns. "Everybody knows that Russia was outside of Eurovision because of the violation of international law. I think Israel is making the same thing today in Gaza," said one demonstrator, highlighting the parallel drawn by protesters between Russia's actions and Israel's. The incident underscores the complex political issues that can intersect with international events like Eurovision, raising questions about neutrality and the global implications of geopolitical conflict.