Noa Kirel, a 21-year old singe - songwriter, was on Monday, named as Israel's representative for the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.
Kirel said she was happy and proud to represent Israel.
A 10 member panel consisting of members of Israel's public broadcasting company Kan, and others, picked the young singer out of 78 potential candidates.
Kan said they opted to meet only once and select a singer in order to avoid unwanted pressure
Culture Minister Hili Tropper hailed the decision.
"Noa Kirel is a talented songwriter and performer and I congratulate her on being chosen to represent the country," he said. "She is a role model for young girls who see her willpower, creativity and determination. We wish her luck and are sure she will represent Israel honorably," he said.
Kirel is a successful pop star who has been performing since she was only 14-years old.
She was asked earlier if she would agree to take the stage as Israel's contestant but she declined the honor. however in the past days Kirel had reconsidered and had given her agreement, which led to the panel's decision.
Meanwhile, Ukraine, the winner of the 2022 Eurovision, won't host the competition due to the ongoing war with Russia since February.
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The winners of the 2022 Eurovision Kalush Orchestra
(Photo: GettyimagesIL, Giorgio Perottino)
The official announcement of the song contest said that it is examining other countries that could host instead, and turned to the public broadcaster of the UK.