Israel's Kan 11 TV insults Armenia at Eurovision

Israel's Kan 11 TV commentator made deeply offensive remarks about Armenia following Parg’s performance at the Eurovision 2025 semi-final on Thursday, the SavetheArQ Movement reported. Below is the full text of its statement denouncing the incident.

"The SavetheArQ Movement of Jerusalem expresses its deep shock and strong condemnation following the disgraceful remarks made by a broadcaster of the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation — Kan 11 — during the live broadcast of the Eurovision Song Contest held on May 15.

Immediately after Armenia’s performance, a Kan 11 broadcaster was heard saying: ‘I can’t believe we gave a whole quarter in Jerusalem to these guys.’ This is a disturbing, baseless, racist, and offensive statement targeting an ancient community that is an inseparable part of the historical, religious, and cultural fabric of Jerusalem.

First and foremost, we wish to clarify that the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem was not ‘given’ to anyone. It was built, preserved, and cultivated over centuries by the Armenian people, who have maintained a continuous presence in the Holy Land — and in Jerusalem in particular — for over 1,600 years. This presence is globally recognized and contributes uniquely to the spiritual, cultural, and historical life of the city.

The Armenian Quarter, one of the four quarters of the Old City, serves as a symbol of coexistence, openness, and cooperation among communities and religions. Its Armenian residents embody values of tolerance, respect for others, and reverence for Jerusalem’s historical heritage across its many eras and diverse population. Therefore, such statements are not only incorrect — they are offensive and dangerous, and they harm the delicate fabric of shared life in Jerusalem.

We, the SavetheArQ Movement of Jerusalem, demand that the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation publicly disavow the statement made and issue an official apology to the Armenian community in Jerusalem and to all who hold dear the values of tolerance, historical integrity, and intercommunal respect.

We will not allow broadcasters — or any other parties — to undermine historical truth or tarnish the dignity of an entire community and a nation.”