IDF veteran and hit singer Noa Kirel picked to represent Israel in Eurovision 2023

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Born with one kidney, Kirel was exempt from compulsory national service on medical grounds, but still chose to go into the army. She completed two years with the IDF in February, serving in a military band.

She explained at the time: “There was never a doubt in my mind. My father and grandfather both served in significant roles, and even if my medical condition would’ve prevented recruitment, I would volunteer.

"I influence many young teenagers and it’s important for me to encourage them to enlist as well.”

Ms Kirel was originally named Noya, but following her diagnosis at birth, a rabbi suggested her name be changed to Noa – a word that comes from the root, "to move" – saying it might help her "break free" from the constraints of her medical condition.

Since 2015, Israeli Eurovision entries have been selected after winning the Israeli singing competition, ‘HaKokhav Haba’. Israel has won four times since 1978, most recently with Netta Barzilai, who triumphed in 2018.

The location of the 2023 contest is yet to be determined after winners Ukraine ruled out hosting the competition due to the ongoing conflict with Russia. The UK is currently the bookies' favourite to host the show, after coming second in the 2022 contest.