Eurovision Postpones Vote on Israel's Participation Amid Ongoing Conflict

Tue Oct 21 2025 11:10:55 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The European Broadcasting Union has delayed a decision regarding Israel's inclusion in next year's Eurovision Song Contest due to the current situation in the Middle East.

In light of recent developments and tensions related to the conflict in Gaza, the European Broadcasting Union has postponed a virtual meeting that was set to vote on Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. A new in-person discussion is scheduled for December, with no confirmation if a vote will occur.

The organisers of the Eurovision Song Contest have postponed a vote on whether Israel should be allowed to perform in next year's competition.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) stated that recent developments in the Middle East prompted the cancellation of the virtual meeting intended for November. Instead, the issue will be discussed at an in-person assembly scheduled for December, though it remains unclear whether a vote will still take place.

Israel's possible participation has stirred controversy, facing opposition from several countries as a result of the ongoing war in Gaza.

On October 13, in a statement regarding the current developments, the EBU confirmed the need for an open and personal dialogue among its members regarding the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. This reflects the broader tensions influencing international cultural events.

Significantly, all 20 living Israeli hostages were released by Hamas on Monday in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, coinciding with a ceasefire that came into effect on Friday.

A spokesperson for the EBU explained, Consequently, the board agreed to put the issue on the agenda of its ordinary winter general assembly, which will take place in December, rather than organizing an extraordinary session in advance.

Initially, the EBU had planned to gather opinions from 68 member countries on Israel's potential participation. Countries like Austria welcomed this decision, advocating against any boycotts of the upcoming contest set to be held in Vienna.

However, nations such as Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands have openly considered boycotting if Israel is allowed to participate, highlighting the charged political climate surrounding the event.

Israel's national broadcaster, Kan, expressed optimism about its participation, especially since Israel had a strong showing at the previous contest, finishing second in May.

As discussions progress, the landscape surrounding Eurovision may continue to evolve, reflecting both artistic aspirations and geopolitical tensions.