Israel might not participate in this year's Eurovision Song Contest in Italy due to a security crisis stemming from a strike by the staff of the Foreign Ministry.
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Singer Michael Ben-David, who was slated to represent Israel with his song "I.M.", might not get the chance to as the staff has refused to handle the security arrangements for the Israeli delegation as part of their strike against working conditions.
The Kan public broadcaster, which operates the contest in Israel, said it could not assume the costly responsibility of providing security for the delegation either.
It approached the Shin Bet in an attempt to find alternate means of protection, but the security agency declined, saying it could not "provide security for the Israeli delegation to Eurovision due to the strike in the Foreign Ministry."
On Tuesday, Kan posted on its official Twitter page, "As of now, due to the Ministry of Foreign affairs strike, that affects the security protocols, the Israeli delegation will not attend the Eurovision in Turin."
A statement on behalf of Ben-David said the singer hoped the Foreign Ministry and the Shin Bet would be able to resolve the matter.
As of now, due to the Ministry of Foreign affairs strike, that affects the security protocols, the Israeli delegation will not attend the Eurovision in Turin.
— KAN Eurovision Israel (@kaneurovision) April 12, 2022
"Michael works hard and spends most of his time rehearsing for the Eurovision Song Contest to give the best show and represent the State of Israel on the biggest stage in the world," the statement said.
The 2022 Eurovision Song Contest is scheduled for May 10 (first semifinal), May 12 (second semifinal), and May 14 (final) in Turin, northern Italy, following the victory of rock band Måneskin in 2021.
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