Is Israel Being Pushed Out of Eurovision 2026? Here’s Everything We Know

The Eurovision Song Contest dazzles every year, a whirlwind of music, lights, and nations coming together to celebrate talent and spectacle. Vienna, steeped in history, will once again embrace the magic, with iconic venues hosting performers, fans, and unforgettable parties. Streets will buzz with music, screens alive with vibrant performances, and every corner telling a story of unity through song. Yet amid the excitement and glamour, a shadow of uncertainty lingers, and now it seems like Israel might not be a part of it.
With fan curiosity at an all-time high, here is the full scoop on whether Israel is being pushed out of the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest or not.
Will Israel compete in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest?
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Police and the European Broadcasting Union are bracing for a potential repeat of last year’s Eurovision, a contest famous for launching ABBA and Celine Dion. The 2024 edition was dominated by political tension, with fierce protests over Israel’s participation amid ongoing conflicts. According to Israeli outlet Ynet, the EBU allegedly suggested Israel withdraw or compete under a neutral flag. The EBU has called these claims "false," stating to The Hollywood Reporter, "The EBU has not made any proposals to Kan regarding participation in next year’s Eurovision Song Contest."
The news has been denied, yet tensions rise ahead of Eurovision 2026. The EBU is consulting members, with final confirmations due by mid-December. Spain insists Israel be excluded or it will not compete, putting the 70th contest in Vienna at risk and turning the usually festive event into a politically charged spectacle. Beyond the political tension, fans are curious about when the contest will take place and the details of its schedule.
Fans are buzzing to discover when and where the contest will unfold, from live performances to fan events, amid mounting excitement and suspense.
Eurovision 2026: Full contest details and key dates revealed
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 will be held in Vienna, Austria. The week will feature three live shows: Semi-final 1 on 12 May, Semi-final 2 on 14 May, and the Grand Final on 16 May, all starting at 21:00 CEST. The Wiener Stadthalle, Austria’s largest indoor arena, will host the event. Around twenty-three countries have confirmed participation, while several others will decide at the EBU’s general assembly in December 2025.
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As fans anticipate Eurovision 2026, tickets are expected to be released in late 2025, promising an unforgettable experience. Vienna will welcome visitors with its majestic Schönbrunn Palace, the Imperial Palace, and vibrant nightlife. Steeped in musical heritage, the city was home to legends such as Mozart and Beethoven, while the Wiener Philharmoniker continues to enchant audiences. With excellent infrastructure, thousands of hotel rooms, and global connections, excitement is building, and as fans wonder about the city of lovers’ concert, attention has now turned to Israel’s participation in the contest.
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What do you think about the controversies surrounding Israel's participation in Eurovision 2026? Let us know in the comments below.
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Edited By: Hriddhi Maitra
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