Israeli broadcaster KAN this morning announced through its Twitter account that a security service strike could mean they withdraw from the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest.
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
A statement issued on behalf of striking workers expressed regret but stressed that responsibility lies with the foreign and finance ministers. “We are no longer able to remain silent in the face of overtime work and being on call without compensation.”
The strike has forced Israeli consulates and embassies to stop issuing visas and passports. The ministry also arranges security cover for travelling artists and sporting participants. Kan is now negotiating directly with Shin Bet (the security service).
The EBU and Eurovision have been contacted for comment. OnEurope suspects it’s a load of tosh, and Michael Ben David will be in Turin, slaying it large. Any excuse to use a photo of a half naked man and we’re there.
