Eurovision Star Yuval Raphael Shares New Footage From October 7th Trauma

Yuval Raphael, who will represent Israel at Eurovision 2025, has shared new footage and emotional reflections from the October 7th attack in Re'im, where she experienced the horrors of that day. Three years after the massacre, Raphael posted on Instagram about returning to the site, stating, "Three years later, I return to the same place where I was reborn, and in the same breath, this land is still bleeding." She described the ongoing struggle with the "dissonance between two feelings that live within me simultaneously," a challenge she has faced for three years and may continue to face throughout her life. Raphael revealed that after the attack, she took a year and a half off from her life to focus on healing her psyche. She explained that since October 7th, everyone has been "reborn like a baby learning everything for the first time," still learning how to feel safe, happy, and to dream. She emphasized that there is no need to rush healing or to be constantly strong, and that fulfilling dreams requires first being at peace with oneself. Raphael recounted that for a long time, her sole goal was simple daily tasks like brushing her teeth, and each success was a victory. Her dreams and aspirations were put aside until her mental state felt strong enough, understanding that healing must precede achievement. She expressed gratitude for those who showed her the good in the world and for the resilience of the Israeli people, highlighting faith, love, and unity. Raphael concluded by affirming that from the pain, they will continue to choose life, love, and dreams, honoring those lost. Her story gained public attention after she participated in "The Next Star for Eurovision," where she spoke about battling post-traumatic stress and ultimately won the chance to represent Israel, reaching second place in the competition.