EBU Cancels Vote to Expel Israel from Eurovision After Ceasefire

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has officially cancelled a controversial vote that could have led to Israel’s exclusion from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest a major victory for Israel and its supporters across Europe.

The vote, initially planned for December but moved up to November, was dropped following the recently brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Several countries, including Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Iceland, had threatened to boycott the competition if Israel were allowed to participate, citing the conflict in Gaza.

Spain’s position carried significant weight due to its status as one of Eurovision’s “big five” sponsors alongside France, Italy, Germany, and the UK. However, Austria, the 2026 host country, issued a strong warning that it would withdraw from hosting duties if Israel were expelled, potentially costing the country over 40 million Euros in penalties.

The tide began to turn as powerful voices across Europe stood up for Israel. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the potential ban as “a scandal,” urging Germany to pull out if Israel was excluded.

Behind the scenes, Israeli officials worked tirelessly to keep the country in the contest. President Isaac Herzog formed a special task force at the President’s Residence, which coordinated with Israeli public broadcaster Kan, EBU leadership, and key European partners. The effort was spearheaded by Kan CEO Golan Yochpaz and attorney Ayala Mizrahi.

Their strategy succeeded. The cancellation of the vote not only secures Israel’s place in Vienna for 2026 but also signals a powerful message: artistic platforms like Eurovision must remain free from political boycotts.

Despite hostile protests and public pressure, Israel’s recent Eurovision entries have thrived. Eden Golan came in fifth overall in 2024 and secured second in audience voting. In 2025, Yuval Raphael finished second overall and first in the audience vote. These results demonstrate not only Israel’s musical talent but also broad popular support across Europe even in the face of political controversy.

Israel, which has participated in Eurovision since 1973 and won the contest four times, remains a vibrant and creative force in the competition. The cancellation of this vote is more than a procedural move it’s a recognition that Israel belongs, on the Eurovision stage and in the heart of European cultural life.

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