After 2 years, the war between Israel and the terror organization Hamas ended.
U.S. President Donald Trump brokered the agreement for the ceasefire.
Last September, we reported that the EBU plans to hold a vote regarding the eligibility of Israel to take part in Eurovision 2026.
Several national broadcasters have openly opposed Israel‘s participation in Eurovision 2026.
Some of those broadcasters have even threatened to withdraw if Israel participates in Eurovision 2026. Among them, we could find: Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia, and Iceland.
Earlier today, the EBU sent a letter to its members regarding the issue.
Based on the EBU President, Ms Delphine Ernotte-Cunci, who is also the chief executive officer of France Télévisions, explained the EBU’s position on the matter:
However, based on the Austrian media, the EBU won’t organize such a vote.
This might be well explained by the fact that the war is over.
Part of the EBU’s statement:
In light of recent developments in the Middle East, the Executive Board agrees that there is a clear need for an open and personal discussion among members on the question of participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. Therefore, the issue has been placed on the agenda of the regular winter General Assembly, scheduled for December, rather than at an extraordinary meeting beforehand
It means that the topic will be discussed in the General Assembly on December 4th and 5th.
Instead, members will be invited to an open discussion, rather than voting.
This leaves the decision regarding Israel’s participation to the EBU board.
Therefore, it is more likely to see Israel among the participating countries in Eurovision 2026.
Yuval Raphael represented Israel in Eurovision 2025
She performed “New Day Will Rise” and ended in 2nd place.
Eurovision 2026 will be held in Vienna, Austria, on May 12th, 14th, and 16th, 2026.
