15.10.2025 09:40
The Eurovision Song Contest has turned into a crisis due to Israel's attacks in Gaza. Spain, Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Belgium announced that they would boycott the contest if Israel is not removed. In contrast, the host country Austria expressed support by stating, "We will not host if Israel is not participating."
The Eurovision Song Contest has turned into a diplomatic crisis due to Israel's attacks in Gaza. Spain, Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Belgium announced that they would boycott the contest if Israel is not removed, while the host country Austria took a completely opposite stance.
"IF ISRAEL IS REMOVED FROM THE CONTEST..."
Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker stated, "If Israel is removed from the contest, Austria will not host," reiterating his country's support for Israel. A similar statement was made last week by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who said, "If Israel is excluded, Germany should not participate in the contest."
VOTING DATE POSTPONED
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision, has postponed the meeting it planned to hold in November to December due to developments in the Middle East. The EBU announced that members will evaluate their participation decisions for the 2026 Eurovision face-to-face. The "Big Five" countries - the UK, Spain, France, Germany, and Italy - which are among the financial supporters of the contest, will play a decisive role in the decision-making process.
WILL BE HELD IN VIENNA NEXT YEAR
In the contest held last May, Israel, represented by Yuval Raphael, came first in the public vote and second in the overall ranking. Austria won the first place with jury points, and it was planned for the 2026 Eurovision to be held in Vienna. However, as discussions about Israel's presence in the contest continue, it is being talked about that the most politically charged wave of boycotts in Eurovision history may occur.