Train station at Malmo’s Eurovision arena closed as protesters clash with police

11.05.2024 21:43

«Metro UK»

Protesters have clashed with police outside the Malmö Arena.

The Eurovision Song Contest has been plunged into even further turmoil after police were forced to close the train station closest to the Malmö Arena due to protests outside the venue. Some 15,000 have joined demonstrations in Sweden against Israel’s competing in this year’s competition. It comes after Ireland’s entry Bambie Thug missed their final dress rehearsal and accused the Israeli broadcaster, Kan, of a rule break. And the Netherlands entry Joost Klein was disqualified following a ‘threatening movement’ from the singer towards a camerawoman, Dutch broadcasters said. — Trains at Hyllie, the station right outside the arena, have been temporarily suspended (Picture: Reuters)

The Eurovision Song Contest has been plunged into even further turmoil after police were forced to close the train station outside the Malmö Arena due to protests at the venue.

Some 15,000 have joined demonstrations in Sweden against Israel’s competing in this year’s competition.

It comes after Ireland’s entry Bambie Thug missed their final dress rehearsal and accused the Israeli broadcaster, Kan, of a rule break.

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And the Netherlands entry Joost Klein was disqualified following a ‘threatening movement’ from the singer towards a camerawoman, Dutch broadcasters said.

Trains at Hyllie, the station right outside the arena, have been temporarily suspended – reportedly to prevent more protesters descending on the venue.

Police officers detain a protester on the day of the ‘Stop Israel’ demonstration, against Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest (Picture: Reuters)

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Mandatory Credit: Photo by Antti Aimo-Koivisto/Shutterstock (14475523y) Police carrying away Pro-Palestinian protester opposing Israel's participation in the 68th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest ESC demonstrate near the Malm? Arena, Sweden, on the eve of the Grand Final on May 11, 2024. Eurovision Song Contest in Malm? - demonstration - Grand Final, Sweden - 11 May 2024 — Police carrying away Pro-Palestinian protester opposing Israel’s participation (Picture: Shutterstock)

Swedish police have also been rounding up pro-Palestine protesters.

Videos posted online show marchers chanting ‘free Palestine’ and ‘shame on you’ being led away by officers.

Clashes have also taken place between police and protesters refusing to be moved away as the grand finale draws near.

This is a developing news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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