The head of Israel’s secret service in Sweden reviewed security ahead of Eurovision

Commercial presentation Update: 05/07/2024 11:43
Issued by: 05/07/2024, 11:43

Malmö/Jerusalem – The director of Israel’s secret service, Shin Bet Ronen Bar, visited the Swedish city of Malmö last week to check the security measures regarding the Israeli delegation that traveled to Sweden for the Eurovision Song Contest. The Israeli server Ynet reported about it today. Israeli security officials fear that singer Eden Golan and members of her entourage could become targets of provocations.

The first semi-final of the competition takes place today. Golanová will appear in the second semi-final on Thursday, as will the Czech representative Aiko. On Saturday, May 11, the winner of this year’s competition will be decided during the final.

This year’s competition is accompanied by protests against Israel’s participation due to the devastating war waged by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip in response to the terrorist attack by the Palestinian Hamas movement on southern Israel on October 7 last year. Israel’s Shin Bet security service had previously advised Golan not to leave the hotel room with her team outside of competition and official events.

In the ethnically diverse Malmö, where a large Palestinian community also lives, pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrations are planned for the duration of Eurovision.

In connection with the organization of the competition, strict security measures were taken in the city. Due to the demonstrations and fears of violence, police officers from all over Sweden were called to Malmö, who were also reinforced by security forces from neighboring Denmark and Norway. When entering the arena, where the competition will be held, visitors will be subject to checks similar to those at the airport. The use of drones is also being considered.

Israel Sweden Europe pop music intelligence Eurovision PHOTO