Netta Barzilai

The contest lured expected calls for boycotts by Israel-haters, but the show went on—almost without a hitch—at the Expo Tel Aviv convention center. During the vote tally, representatives from other countries praised Israel’s top-notch production.

As Israel prepares to host Eurovision, Israeli singer Kobi Marimi gives his entry a more upbeat tempo in the hopes that it will improve his country’s chances at the international song contest.

“Boycotts do not cause peace. Boycotts cause more division among people. More polarization,” says the New York director of Creative Community for Peace, which supports artists and encourages artists to perform in Israel.

The European Broadcasting Union visited Israel, where representatives scouted potential host cities, including Eilat, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

In meeting Abbas, the prince also refereed to the Palestinians as a “country.”

“Toy” is officially the most viewed song of all time on the Eurovision YouTube channel, racking up 61 million views in just two months.

“I’m so happy, thank you so much,” the emotional Barzilai said upon taking the stage when her victory was announced. “I love my country!” she yelled. “Next time in Jerusalem!” At a press conference after her win, Barzilai thanked her fans and tearfully said, “I’m so happy we were able to reach hearts, I’m so happy we were able to change [Israel’s] image. It’s time. We deserve this.”

Barzilai, who performed the song “Toy,” will join finalists from Estonia, Cyprus, Lithuania, Czech Republic, Finland, Ireland, Albania and Bulgaria.