Ireland's Eurovision entry accuses Israeli broadcaster of rule break

Bambie Thug has been critical of Israel competing in the contest and has called for a ceasefire in the Middle East (Tobias SCHWARZ)
Bambie Thug has been critical of Israel competing in the contest and has called for a ceasefire in the Middle East (Tobias SCHWARZ)
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Ireland's Eurovision Song Contest entry Bambie Thug on Saturday accused the Israeli broadcaster, Kan, of a rule break.

The singer -- also known as Bambie Ray Robinson -- has previously hit out at Israel's representative, Eden Golan, competing in this year's contest in the Swedish city of Malmo, and made pro-Palestinian comments.

"I have raised multiple complaints to the EBU (Eurovision organisers the European Broadcasting Union) regarding instances I have experienced this week," the performer said on Instagram.

"Earlier today they confirmed to my delegation in front of others that Kan's commentator had broken the rules of conduct during the Eurovision semi-final," Bambie Thug, who uses the pronouns they/them, added.

"I have been patiently waiting to hear what action is set to be taken by the EBU following this rule break."

A spokesperson for the Israeli broadcaster Kan said it wished "everyone the best of luck tonight".

The post came after Dutch contestant Joost Klein was disqualified over a complaint made by a female member of the production crew that is being investigated by Swedish police.

Thousands of demonstrators have rallied in Malmo against Israel's participation.

The city's more than 360,000 inhabitants represent 186 nationalities, many from the Middle East.

The Eurovision organisers said Bambie Thug missed the dress rehearsal "due to a situation that is currently being discussed with the EBU and song contest organisers".

har/imm