The 64th Eurovision Song Contest commences as hopeful contestants from 41 countries strut down the orange carpet in Tel Aviv.

Eurovision is 'a festival of light,' said Netta Barzilai. 'For people to boycott light is spreading darkness. It's the exact opposite thing.'

As excitement builds for Eurovision 2019, the contest's host, Israel, previewed its official entry into the wildly popular international singing competition.

Theatrical vocalist Kobi Marimi was selected as the winner at the reality TV show 'Rising Star for Eurovision' on Tuesday.

UK Chief Rabbi slams anti-Israel BDS movement over bid to spoil Eurovision contest in Tel Aviv.

Israeli Eurovision hero Netta Barzilai released a fresh single on newfound fame, explaining to the press that the song contest that catapulted her to fame has the power to unite.

Israel is 'busy preparing to welcome the participants – and the world! – to Tel Aviv and will be putting on a show to remember,' the Kan broadcaster stated. 

'Israel is amazing. We have amazing people,' Netta said. 'We are very warm and vibrant, and we have good values,' but 'we have such bad PR in the world.'

The timing was perfect - it was Jerusalem Day, and Israelis were already celebrating the 51st anniversary of the reunification of the city.

BDS is trying, and apparently failing, to hurt Israel's chances of winning the Eurovision song contest.