Growing concerns over the worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza have led to demands for Israel’s removal from the music competition.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Monday that Germany might pull out of Eurovision 2026 should Israel be barred. The event’s organizers are currently under increasing pressure to implement a ban, stemming from the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
During an ARD interview, Merz was questioned on whether Germany would voluntarily withdraw from Eurovision if Israel’s invitation were revoked.
“I would back this move,” he replied, further stating, “I consider it scandalous that such a discussion is even taking place. Israel belongs in the contest.”
Germany is one of Eurovision’s ‘Big Five’ nations, alongside France, Italy, Spain, and the UK, which provide the largest financial contributions to the event.
While France has confirmed its involvement irrespective of Israel’s participation status, Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland, and Slovenia have indicated they would pull out if Israel is not prohibited.
Facing intensified pressure, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) revealed plans last month for a unique online ballot in November, which could decide Israel’s expulsion from Eurovision 2026.
In correspondence with member broadcasters, EBU president Delphine Ernotte Cunci recognised the “unparalleled range of opinions” regarding Israel’s involvement and stated that the vote would take place at an extraordinary general assembly.
KAN, Israel’s national broadcaster, reacted by expressing “hope that the Eurovision Song Contest will preserve its cultural and non-political nature,” yet cautioned that a ban “might lead to far-reaching consequences.”
Despite asserting its “apolitical” stance, the EBU barred Russia from the competition in 2022 after the Ukraine conflict intensified. Moscow has consistently denounced actions against artists, asserting that efforts to “cancel” Russian culture internationally will eventually be unsuccessful.
Nevertheless, Israel has kept participating in the contest, even amid global apprehension concerning its operations in Gaza.
The conflict commenced on October 7, 2023, with a Hamas assault on Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities and 251 individuals taken hostage. Subsequently, Israel’s military offensive in Gaza has caused the deaths of more than 67,000 Palestinians, as reported by local health agencies.
The 70th Eurovision contest is scheduled for Vienna, Austria, culminating in the grand finale on May 16, 2026.