Yuval Raphael, a 24-year-old Israeli singer, is preparing to perform at Eurovision 2025, a monumental achievement given the traumatic events she survived just over a year ago. In October 2023, Raphael was attending the Nova festival in Israel when Hamas gunmen launched a deadly attack, killing 1,200 people, including several of her friends. The attack left Raphael physically and emotionally scarred, but she is now set to represent Israel on the world’s largest music stage.
“I never dreamed I’d be at Eurovision. To be here now, having survived something so horrific, feels like a personal win,” Raphael shared in an interview with the BBC. Her journey from the horrors of that day to the bright lights of Eurovision is a testament to her resilience and determination.
Survivor of Brutal Attack
On October 7, 2023, as rockets fired from Gaza and gunmen opened fire on festival-goers, Raphael found herself trapped in a bomb shelter alongside 50 others. In an emotionally charged phone call to her father, Raphael thought it would be her final moments, whispering, “Dad, lots of people are dead. Please send help.” Fortunately, she survived, though 1,200 people were killed that day, and 251 others were taken hostage by Hamas.
Despite sustaining injuries, including shrapnel in her leg, Raphael began her professional singing career shortly after the attack. “The gift of life is something I hold dear now,” she says. “Singing brings me happiness and helps me live fully.”
Eurovision Performance
Raphael’s song, New Day Will Rise, will be performed at Eurovision’s semi-final, marking a poignant moment in her recovery. While the competition’s rules prohibit any political statements, her performance carries deep personal significance. She won’t discuss the attack in her official performance, but her history is undeniable. Previously, she shared her experience with the United Nations.
As Raphael prepares for her moment on stage, the Israeli contestant has faced protests over her country’s participation in Eurovision. Several broadcasters, including RTÉ (Ireland) and those from Spain and Slovenia, have called for a discussion about Israel’s inclusion in light of the ongoing conflict. More than 70 former Eurovision contestants signed a letter requesting Israel’s exclusion from the contest.
Eurovision organizers, however, have emphasized the event’s commitment to unity through music, stating that despite differing views, the competition aims to promote diversity and inclusion.
Amidst Protests and Security Concerns
In addition to facing political pressure, Raphael and her delegation have dealt with protests and threats. During the opening parade in Basel, Switzerland, a pro-Palestinian demonstrator allegedly made a throat-slitting gesture and spat at the Israeli delegation, prompting a formal complaint.
Despite the challenges, Raphael remains focused on her mission. “I’m here to spread love and bring pride to my country,” she said. “I know there may be boos, but we are here to sing and I will sing my heart out.”
As the competition unfolds, Raphael’s presence at Eurovision is a powerful symbol of survival, strength, and the unifying power of music amidst a world divided by conflict.
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