The EBU sparked controversy after releasing a video highlighting Gaza testimonies and strongly criticizing Israel. Could Israel’s participation in Eurovision be at risk?
The controversial video: EBU published a video about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, criticizing the Israeli government and claiming authorities are undermining press freedom by barring foreign journalists from entering the territory.
The footage presents testimonies about growing hunger due to a shortage of food and basic goods. In the official statement attached, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk was quoted as saying that hunger in Gaza is “a direct result of Israeli Government action”.
הצגת פוסט זה באינסטגרם
Allegations of Suppressing Press Freedom
According to the EBU’s statement, Israeli authorities are preventing international media outlets from accessing Gaza and covering the situation. The footage included in the video was filmed by local Palestinian journalists, who the EBU said face an acute shortage of medicine, food and essential supplies, while risking their lives in conflict zones. The Union urged Israel to grant unrestricted access to foreign journalists and noted that 29 countries have already signed the Media Freedom Coalition declaration, demanding independent documentation of events in Gaza.
Is Israel’s Participation in Eurovision at Risk?
Israel’s national broadcaster KAN chose not to directly respond to the publication. However, senior decision-makers emphasized that so far Israel’s participation in the contest has not been questioned. In the past, the EBU has also published criticisms regarding Gaza and press freedom, without affecting Israel’s status as a full member of the organization.
Nonetheless, changes in the composition of the Eurovision reference group, the internal advisory body of the contest, have raised concerns among Eurovision fans in Israel. According to reports, the group now includes more representatives with a critical stance toward Israel. Combined with threats from several countries to withdraw if Israel participates, these changes may influence the EBU’s future decisions.
What Does This Mean for Eurovision Fans in Israel?
At present, no official decision has been made regarding Israel’s membership in the EBU or its participation in Eurovision. It is important to note that the EBU’s criticism is directed mainly at the Israeli government, not at KAN, which is the national broadcaster and an EBU member. Kan is considered relatively independent and has even publicly criticized the government in the past, reinforcing its standing as a legitimate EBU member.
Given the ongoing tension around the issue, it is difficult to predict developments in the coming months. However, the prevailing assessment is that until any official decisions are reached, Israel’s participation in Eurovision remains secure for now.
Israel at Eurovision 2025
“New Day Will Rise” is the song performed by Yuval Raphael, who was chosen to represent Israel after winning the 11th season of “The Next Star.” Israel advanced to the final after winning the second semi-final with 203 points and finished second overall with 436 points in the grand final. Israel ranked first in the public vote but only 14th with the jury. This marks the third consecutive year that Israel has reached the top five – an unprecedented achievement.
Eurovision 2025: This was Israel’s 47th participation in Eurovision. Israel joined the contest in 1973 and has won four times. Its most recent victory was at Eurovision 2018 with the song “Toy”, performed by singer Netta Barzilai.
