“Israel is an inseparable part of the contest”: How did the Israeli delegation in Basel respond to the Eurovision winner’s comments—and what did the Swiss national broadcaster have to say?
Nemo, who brought Switzerland to victory in Eurovision 2024 with the song “The Code”, is still at the center of controversy this year. In a new interview with HuffPost UK, the artist stated unequivocally: “I support the call to exclude Israel from the Eurovision Song Contest.” This declaration joins a wave of over 70 artists previously connected to Eurovision—including two past winners—who recently signed an open letter urging the disqualification of Israel from the upcoming contest in Basel. Now, official responses have emerged from both the Israeli delegation and the Swiss national broadcaster.
The Interview That Sparked It All
In the HuffPost UK interview, Nemo spoke out strongly against Israel’s participation: “Personally, I don’t think it makes any sense for Israel to be part of Eurovision in the current situation. I support the call to remove Israel from the contest.”
Nemo added in a follow-up statement: “Israel’s actions are fundamentally at odds with the values Eurovision claims to stand for—peace, unity, and respect for human rights.”
While such a statement might have passed unnoticed from a regular participant, coming from the latest Eurovision winner—who also represented the host country—this became a prominent political statement that could not be ignored.
The Israeli Delegation Responds
A journalist from Swiss newspaper “Blick” contacted Gali Avni Ornstein, Head of Media for the Israeli Eurovision delegation, requesting an official comment. Her response was brief: “We will not comment on this.”
This was interpreted by many as a strategic decision to avoid further escalation or political entanglement, in line with the code of conduct signed by all delegations, aimed at preventing incidents similar to those seen during Eurovision 2024.
Swiss Jewish Community Reacts: “Regrettable and Dangerous”
Jonathan Kreutner, Secretary General of the Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities (SIG), responded firmly: “We regret Nemo’s comments regarding Israel’s participation. The contest should be a depoliticized music event that connects people—especially in challenging times. Israel has been an inseparable part of the contest for decades.”
He added: “Criticism of countries is legitimate, but it should be expressed in a balanced manner—not through calls for cultural exclusion. Such sweeping demands only inflame tensions around Eurovision rather than helping to ease them.”
What Do the Swiss Broadcaster and Eurovision Management Say?
In an official statement from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the organization emphasized: “Eurovision is a universal event aimed at connection, diversity, and inclusion through music. We are not a governmental body, but an association of public service broadcasters.”
From the Swiss SRG broadcaster and the Eurovision organizing team in Basel, a conciliatory yet clear position was presented. Edi Estermann, Head of Communications for Eurovision 2025, stated: “We respect Nemo’s right to express personal opinions. We look forward to welcoming Nemo back on stage here in Basel.”
However, Estermann clarified that there is a clear expectation to avoid political messaging at official events: “Nemo signed the code of conduct, and we expect it to be respected—especially during official appearances or on the main stage.”
The Code of Conduct: Keeping Politics Off the Stage
According to official Eurovision regulations, the contest is meant to be a joyful and apolitical event that celebrates culture and music. Each delegate must refrain from political promotion or associated symbols, whether in words, actions, or wardrobe. The code applies to all rehearsals, events, and performances.
Nemo’s Previous Statements Against Israel
Even prior, Nemo had made public statements opposing Israel’s participation. Despite this, they clarified they would not withdraw from the contest: “It was very important to me that this story be told. And if I’m not there to tell it—then no one else will.”
Beyond their stance on Israel, Nemo also criticized Eurovision organizers over their recent decision to prohibit the display of pride flags on stage: “It’s an incredibly stupid decision. You can’t align yourself with the LGBTQ+ community for years—and then suddenly prevent artists from waving the pride flag.”
As of now, Nemo has yet to respond to “Blick’s” request for comment regarding public reactions to the interview.
Switzerland at Eurovision 2025
“Voyage” (translated as: “Journey”) is the title of the song that will be performed by singer Zoë Më, who will represent Switzerland in the grand final of Eurovision 2025 on May 17th in Basel, Switzerland. The song was written by the singer, Emily Middlemas, and Tom Oehler, who previously wrote and produced the German entry for Eurovision 2019. The song will be performed in French.
Currently, the singer is ranked 10th in the betting odds tables.
Who is Zoë Më?
Zoë Më, stage name for Zoë Alina Kressler is a Swiss singer born in Basel, who typically performs in French and German, blending what she describes as chanson with poetic pop. Although she grew up in Freiburg, Germany, she has always felt a strong connection to the French language and its musicality.
Zoë Më rose to public prominence in 2024, winning two awards from the Swiss national broadcaster – one from the German-speaking division and another from the French-speaking division. She has performed at several prestigious Swiss festivals, including the Lucerne Festival.
Source: blick
Eurovision 2025: This will be Switzerland’s 65th participation in Eurovision. Switzerland joined the contest in 1956, was one of the seven founding countries, and has won three times over the years. Switzerland’s most recent victory was at the last Eurovision, 2025, with Nemo and the song “The Code”. This win follows Switzerland’s previous victory in 1988 with the song “Ne partez pas sans moi”, performed by the international singer Céline Dion.
