Good evening, Israel

When I was a child, the Eurovision event was something we looked forward to. There was a pre-Eurovision (I still remember Rita's strap falling and the Lazy Bums' song). The whole family gathered in the living room, and whoever signed up... fell asleep... In recent years, it was less so... Last year, Netta broke something in the glass ceiling and opened something in all of our hearts.

In the past few months, there was a buzz around the event, a lot of anticipation and excitement to host an event of such magnitude. And then, a few weeks before, we entered a terrible period of red alerts, anxiety, and worry. And again, a ceasefire.

Let’s not forget that this was a year of municipal elections and national elections.

We deserve peace, joy, and celebrations. We deserve for the whole world to see us like this, at our best.

So to everyone who made sure we had an international celebration right here close to home and brought us great pride worldwide, thank you! And to you, dear Kobi, who is representing all of us tonight, we wish you great success.

We’re here with the kids, who will probably be a little tired tomorrow but will enjoy the live experience. Good evening israel. You're amazing just the way you are 💙