Olly Alexander has joined other Eurovision stars in calling for an “immediate and lasting” ceasefire in
Gaza amid the ongoing Israel–Hamas war. In recent weeks, the Years & Years frontman and star, who is set to in Malmö with his track “Dizzy”, has faced calls from some to boycott the over of the participation of Israel in the competition. Earlier this week, more than 450 queer artists, public figures and organisations signing an open letter calling on him to withdraw. An attack on southern Israel by Hamas on 7 October led to the deaths of more than 1,200 people and triggered the ongoing war in Gaza. The conflict has resulted in more than 30,000 estimated
Palestinians deaths. The disqualification of states due to conflict is not without precedent: In 2022,
Russia was banned from competing at Eurovision after Vladimir Putin’s invasion of
Ukraine earlier that year. In a statement shared on
Social Media, Olly Alexander and other 2024 Eurovision acts, including , said they “acknowledge the privilege of taking part in Eurovision”. “In light of the current situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and particularly in Gaza, and in Isreal, we do not feel comfortable being silent,” the group. “It is important to us to stand in solidarity with the oppressed and communicate our heartfelt wish for peace, an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and the safe return of all hostages. “We stand united against all forms of hate, including antisemitism and islamophobia.” They continued: “We firmly believe in the unifying power of
music, enabling people to transcend differences and foster meaningful conversations and connections.” The group concluded their statement by saying they feel it their “duty” to “create and uphold this space, with a strong hope that it will inspire greater compassion and empathy”.