Belgium’s Dutch public broadcaster VRT briefly interrupted the broadcast while the second semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest was on to share a message protesting Israeli attacks on Palestinians. “This is a union action. We condemn the human rights violations of the State of Israel. Israel destroys press freedom. Therefore, we are stopping the broadcast for a short time. #Immediate ceasefire #Stop the genocide,” said the message.

The ACOD-VRT workers’ union, which organized the protest, stated that it was unacceptable for an Israeli candidate to take part in the Eurovision Song Contest and that simply standing by and watching what Israel was doing was no longer an option.

Belgium broadcast Eurovision protest

GalleryWORLDPOLITICS

Iran Warns Europe Over Nuclear Dispute

On Jun 6, 2025

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.

Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.

Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.

Europe Iran Nuclear UN Uranium

Belgian TV Channel Interrupts Eurovision Broadcast to Protest Israel

Iran Warns Europe Over Nuclear Dispute