In Malmö’s central centre, protesters opposing Israel’s participation in tonight’s second semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest in Sweden detonated smoke canisters in the colours of the Palestinian flag, reports RTE.
On their posters, protestors are holding pictures of Gazan citizens who have been hurt in the battle between Israel and Hamas.
Prior to the protests, Malmö’s central plaza was heavily guarded by police.
Before Israel’s Eden Golan took the stage at Malmö Arena, officers in over five vehicles pulled up to Stortorget, reports RTE.
While visitors strolled about shooting photos of the town hall and fountain, the Swedish Police Authority set up shop at many square entry points.
An afternoon pro-Palestinian march is scheduled, which an official with the police stated would result in “disturbance to traffic,” reports RTE.
The march’s organisers have stated that the protest would begin at 3 p.m. and terminate at Molleplatsen Park.
Along with Norway and Denmark, Swedish police have been policing the Eurovision village, the city centre, and Malmö Arena on a daily basis. This is in the midst of requests for Israel to be disqualified from the competition due to the conflict in Gaza.
According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 34,000 Palestinians have died, reports RTE.
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