A senior EBU official spoke before the discussion on Israel’s participation in Eurovision, describing the tense atmosphere among delegates and outlining the demands of countries opposing Israel’s entry.
At these moments, dozens of representatives from across Europe are gathering in Geneva to discuss one question stirring the continent: will Israel compete in Eurovision 2026, or will it be expelled amid growing pressure? Before the discussion, a senior EBU official described in an interview with N12 the tense atmosphere within the venue:
“The atmosphere among delegates is grim, and even Israel’s closest allies are expressing frustration. We should never have reached this point. We attempted to offer Israel alternative solutions, but they were rejected. Even if Israel competes in the next Eurovision – the contest is dead. It’s been stained by politics in every possible decision”.
The official illustrated a situation where Israel faces criticism from all sides during deliberations. He added that one proposal some delegations are using to persuade opposing countries is to allow Israel to compete under one condition: if Israel wins, the Eurovision contest would be hosted in another country. Unofficial reports from Spain suggest an additional compromise – Israel could take part under a neutral flag rather than the Israeli flag.
The Pressuring Nations: A Wave of Demands Against Israel
The debate unfolds amid calls from several member states of the EBU to expel Israel from the contest. Among the nations urging this unprecedented step are Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Ireland, and Iceland. In contrast, countries such as Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Greece, and Cyprus firmly oppose Israel’s suspension. The expulsion request stems from the ongoing Gaza war, despite the ceasefire, and has fueled tensions between nations supporting Israel’s continued participation and those pressing for political action through the Eurovision stage.
For now, Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2026 remains uncertain. Although the issue is on the agenda, it is still unclear whether a vote will follow – a move that could complicate Israel’s position significantly.
The discussion on Israel’s entry takes place as part of the EBU’s General Assembly, held today (Thursday) and tomorrow (Friday). During this time, representatives of the public national broadcasters will decide whether a formal vote is necessary. The procedure may prove complex, as EBU regulations lack a clear mechanism for voting on a country’s expulsion from Eurovision. Should a vote take place, all EBU members – even non-participating countries such as Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia – could cast their ballots, potentially tipping the outcome against Israel.
Will the new measures calm the opposition?
Various assessments suggest that if most EBU member states believe recent reforms – including rule changes, adjustments to the voting structure, and stricter supervision – guarantee enough neutrality, a vote may be avoided altogether. Such a scenario would allow Israel to continue participating under normal conditions and restore stability for the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation KAN. However, certain sanctions might still apply, such as preventing Israel from hosting the contest in case of victory or requiring competition under a neutral flag.
Although it’s less likely, the decision could be postponed to tomorrow’s session, extending uncertainty for all sides and intensifying political pressure around Eurovision. The EBU reportedly prefers to settle the issue quickly after months of tension surrounding Israel’s entry.
Israel’s participation could shape the contest’s future
If the EBU ultimately decides in favor of Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2026, it would bring relief in Israel, allowing full preparations for the competition to proceed. Yet such a decision might also ignite new conflict across Europe. Spain and Slovenia have already announced potential boycotts if Israel remains in the contest.
Such withdrawals could have major consequences for Eurovision’s future. Spain, one of the contest’s key participants and primary financial contributors, serves as a cornerstone of its overall budget. Its withdrawal – especially amid escalating political strain – could destabilize the event financially and raise questions over its long-term viability.
When will the results be known?
New details are expected to emerge later this evening, following the first day of discussions. Until then, Israel—and millions of viewers across Europe—remain on edge. Updates will follow as developments unfold.
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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 “HaKokhav HaBa”. Israel advanced to the final after winning the second semi-final with 203 points and finished second overall with 357 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 2026: This will be Israel’s 48th 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.
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Ilay Gaist is a leading Israeli content creator and writer specializing in the Eurovision Song Contest. He is a well-known commentator with extensive expertise in the contest’s history, rules, and dynamics. His passion for Eurovision drives him to deliver rich, professional, and innovative content to his audience.
Ilay holds a bachelor’s degree in Arabic and has a multilingual background. He also engages in cultural research, with a particular focus on global culinary traditions and the evolution of local cuisines around the world.
