Israel’s latest Eurovision Song Contest representative Eden Golan received a medical exemption from IDF enlistment following medical conditions she disclosed during her recruitment process, Ynet learned on Tuesday.
But the 20-year-old has already taken steps to serve in the military on a voluntary basis and is expected to continue her enlistment process soon.
Sources close to Golan confirmed the details and told Ynet, "Eden began the compulsory recruitment process within the IDF until she received the notice that she would not be able to enlist normally due to medical reasons. Despite this, she saw no option other than to volunteer and immediately informed the military that she would do so as soon as possible.”
“Since Eurovision, Eden has represented Israel at every opportunity she could and now it's important for her to volunteer for the soldiers, especially during these difficult times. In the near future, Eden will take part in a public diplomacy campaign around the world and is expected to start her volunteer service once it’s completed,” the sources added.
Eden Golan performs the original version of her Eurovision song, 'October Rain,' at Hostages Square in Tel AViv
(Video: Satview)
The singer proudly represented Israel at the 2024 Eurovision, finishing in fifth place despite rising antisemitism and security tensions surrounding the event. This came after the song she was supposed to perform was disqualified due to alleged "political statements,” found within it.