Marina Satti did not intend to offend anyone

The countdown to the 68th Eurovision final tonight in Malmö, Sweden, where both Greece and Cyprus have qualified.

Marina Satti and “ZARI” will appear 12th but since yesterday the eyes have turned rather more to her yawns than to her performance in yesterday’s quarter final.

The 37-year-old singer was “caught” by journalists’ cameras yawning and pretending to fall asleep on the table during a question to the representative of Israel, Eden Golan, at a press conference, causing a “battle” on social media and beyond.

Those who interpreted her actions as an anti-war comment against Israel’s genocide in Gaza will likely be disappointed, as her response suggests that it was not an act of solidarity with the Palestinians.

“We are here for the music,” said Satti in an Instagram story. “I didn’t know it had reached such proportions because all day we were in the arena for rehearsal and I had my cell phone turned off. What I want to make clear is that it was not my intention to offend anyone,” she said.

She added that both she and the Greek mission have only brought positive energy to the community and joy. “We will do the best we can, we will give our best and we thank you very much for the whole journey, all the support and love until now” she concluded.

READ MORE /Controversy Surrounds Marina Satti’s Yawning Incident During Israeli Delegation’s Remarks at Eurovision 2024