Yuval Raphael Secures Eurovision Spotlight: Can She Bring Israel Victory?»

Israel’s journey to Eurovision 2025 just hit an electrifying high note. Tonight, Yuval Raphael emerged victorious in the fiercely competitive finale of HaKokhav HaBa for Eurovision 2025, capturing the hearts of both judges and viewers with her breathtaking performances. Now, all eyes are on Basel, Switzerland, where Yuval will aim to bring home Israel’s fifth Eurovision win this May.

A Night to Remember

The finale showcased three stellar talents: Valerie Hamati, Moran Aharon and red band and Yuval Raphael but it was Yuval who left an indelible mark. Her first performance, a soulful reinterpretation of ABBA’s “Dancing Queen,” may have shown a few nervous cracks, but her second-round rendition of Sam Smith’s “Writing’s On The Wall” was nothing short of a tour de force. Draped in a sleek black dress and flanked by dramatic string players, Yuval commanded the stage with an intensity that left no doubt—this was her moment.

The judges were unanimous in their praise. Shiri Maimon, a Eurovision alum herself, described Yuval’s performance as “mesmerizing,” while Ran Danker lauded her for bringing “elegance and emotional depth” to every note. The audience vote sealed the deal, awarding Yuval an overwhelming 87 points.

The Competition’s Standouts

While Yuval stole the spotlight, her competitors delivered unforgettable moments of their own. Valerie Hamati’s powerful Arabic-infused rendition of “Imagine” was a heartfelt tribute to unity, earning her second place. Meanwhile, Moran Aharoni and Red Band brought infectious energy to their Prince medley, securing third place with their theatrical flair.

What’s Next for Yuval?

As the dust settles on the HaKokhav HaBa stage, the next step for Yuval is perhaps the most crucial—selecting the song she will perform on the Eurovision stage. Set to be revealed in March, the song will play a pivotal role in determining whether Yuval can turn her national triumph into international glory.

This year’s Eurovision holds special significance for Israel. With tensions still lingering from last year’s competition, where political unrest cast a shadow behind the scenes, Yuval’s participation represents a beacon of hope and resilience. Her voice, powerful yet vulnerable, seems perfectly suited to carry that message to a global audience.