Jerusalem backlash casts shadow over Eurovision contest

Tia Goldenberg, The Associated Press</span>
Published Friday, June 22, 2018 7:28AM EDT
Last Updated Friday, June 22, 2018 7:29AM EDT

JERUSALEM -- When the United States recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital, Israelis hoped other countries would follow suit.

Instead, the move has created a backlash. The latest setback threatens the contested city's hopes of hosting the 2019 Eurovision song contest -- an affair that's something of a national obsession.

Earlier this month, Argentina pulled out of a highly anticipated exhibition soccer match with Israel after the government moved the game to Jerusalem. Prince William, set to visit next week, has listed Jerusalem's Old City as part of the "Occupied Palestinian Territories" on his schedule.

Israel won Eurovision last month with a flashy pop tune called "Toy" by the charismatic, previously unknown singer Netta Barzilai. Traditionally, the winner gets to host next year's finale, but Jerusalem's hopes for the event are fading.

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