The Daily Telegraph - Saturday
Eurovision rocked as Olly Alexander joins calls for Gaza ceasefire
BRITAIN’S Eurovision Song Contest entrant Olly Alexander has been criticised for wading into politics and calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Alexander joined contest entrants from eight other countries in calling for an “immediate and lasting ceasefire” in the conflict, along with a release of all hostages held since the Oct 7 Hamas attack on Israel.
Alexander had been under intense pressure from pro-Palestinian activists, including Maxine Peake, the actor, and Sarah Schulman, the playwright and novelist, calling on him to boycott the contest because of the inclusion of Israel. His call for a ceasefire is likely to be seen as an attempt to placate activists while maintaining his wider fan base who want to see him perform in Eurovision. In a statement issued on social media Alexander said he did not “feel comfortable” remaining silent over the conflict in Gaza.
The singer said in the joint statement: “It is important to us to stand in solidarity with the oppressed and communicate our heartfelt wish for peace, an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and the safe return of all hostages.
“We stand united against all forms of hate, including antisemitism and Islamophobia.”
The statement, co-signed by Ireland’s entry Bambie Thug, Norway’s Gåte, Portugal’s entry Iolanda, Spain’s Megara and swiss rapper Nemo, goes on: “We
‘It is important to us to stand in solidarity with the oppressed’
firmly believe in the unifying power of music, enabling people to transcend differences and foster meaningful conversations and connections.
“We feel it is our duty to create and uphold this space, with a strong hope that it will inspire greater compassion and empathy.”
The National Jewish Assembly called on Alexander to stay out of politics and “concentrate on what he is good at – singing and acting”. Gary Mond, its chairman, said: “It’s always tragic when any form of politics interferes in sport or entertainment.”
The ceasefire call comes amid an increasingly bitter row over this year’s contest because of its decision to include Israel. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organises the contest, has condemned attempts to politicise the event, saying Eurovision is “not a contest between governments”.
Noel Curran, the EBU director general, has argued that the current situation in Gaza differs from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which led to the exclusion of the Russian broadcaster in 2022. He said the EBU was in line with other international bodies that have maintained an “inclusive” stance towards Israel.
Mr Curran said: “We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the current conflict. However, the Eurovision Song Contest is a non-political music event and a competition between public service broadcasters who are members of the EBU. It is not a contest between governments.”