As the Eurovision Song Contest approaches, Israel’s National Security Council (NSC) has issued a warning to Israeli and Jewish travelers, citing elevated security concerns surrounding the high-profile event in Switzerland.
In its statement, the NSC emphasized that the Eurovision contest is considered a “preferred target for threats and attacks by terrorist elements” due to its extensive media coverage and international attention.
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Eurovision is a terror target because of extensive media coverage and international attention.
(Photo: Fabrice Coffrini/ AFP)
According to the NSC, there were 360 anti-Israel protests and demonstrations around the world over the past year, and it is likely that similar events will take place during Eurovision week, “with a particular focus on Israeli attendees or the Israeli delegation.”
The NSC urged travelers to avoid areas of tension and protest zones, warning that “terror supporters or lone attackers may attempt to exploit these disturbances to carry out premeditated attacks or opportunistic assaults.”
The council also advised against attending large gatherings associated with Israel that are not secured, especially high-profile events or popular venues known to attract Israeli crowds.
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Travelers were instructed to “follow the instructions of local security authorities and report any hostile activity targeting Israelis or Jews.”
The NSC also issued several key recommendations: Maintain heightened awareness at all times; Know the emergency contact numbers for local police, medical services, and the Israeli consulate, if one is present; Avoid posting travel plans or location details on social media; Conceal visible Israeli or Jewish identifiers in public spaces; Refrain from discussing military service, reserve duty, or security matters related to Israel.
Additionally, the NSC noted that the Home Front Command’s mobile app will provide real-time security updates for those in Switzerland.
The warning comes amid increasing tensions and the potential for politically motivated disruptions during the event.