VRT, which broadcasts in Flemish, stopped broadcasting at the beginning of the second semi-final of Eurovision held in Malmö, Sweden, to protest Israel’s attacks in Gaza.
In the message published by the channel, “This is a union action. We condemn the human rights violations of the state of Israel. In addition, Israel destroys press freedom. Therefore, we are suspending our broadcast for a while. Ceasefire now.” expressions were used.
REACTIONS TO ISRAEL’S ACCESSORY
Two Belgian ministers had previously stated that they thought Israel should not participate in the Eurovision Song Contest as long as its attacks against civilians in Gaza continued.
The artists who will represent Belgium, Portugal, England, Ireland, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Lithuania, Finland and San Marino in the Eurovision Song Contest called for an urgent and sustainable ceasefire in Gaza.
Different groups from many European countries had called for Israel to be banned from the Eurovision Song Contest, whose final will be held in Malmö, Sweden, on May 11. (AA)