WATCH: Gaza comes to Eurovision: Protesters Target Israel’s Yuval Rafael

Pro-Palestinian protesters carrying Palestinian flags demonstrated against the Israeli delegation during the "Turquoise Carpet" event, marking the official opening of Eurovision Week in Basel. The event spanned 1.3 kilometers, stretching from the city's central town hall, along the Rhine River, to the city's exhibition center.

Representatives from all 37 participating countries took part in the opening ceremony, traveling along the route in vintage trams. Thousands of fans lined the path, joined by local dance troupes, drummers, and techno bands. At the end of the route, in the Eurovision Village, representatives are expected to give interviews and meet with the public.

On Friday, Israel's contestant Yuval Raphael held her second rehearsal at the St. Jakobshalle Arena.

The Israeli delegation expressed satisfaction with the rehearsal, after which the European Broadcasting Union released a 30-second preview clip of Rafael’s performance.

This year, as in previous years, Israel’s participation has faced backlash. Last week, 72 former Eurovision contestants signed a letter to the European Broadcasting Union, claiming that Israel’s broadcaster “Kan” is complicit in what they called "genocide against Palestinians in Gaza."

Over the weekend, Ireland’s national broadcaster stated it had received assurances from the EBU that a broader discussion on Israel’s participation would take place.

Yuval Raphael is scheduled to perform in the second semi-final on Thursday, as the 14th act. All Eurovision broadcasts, on May 13, 15, and 17, will air live on Kan 11 and Kan BOX.