The question of whether Israel will be allowed to participate—or be excluded—from Eurovision 2026 is expected, if raised, to be placed on the agenda of the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) regular December meeting. This follows the cancellation of the vote originally scheduled for November. Slovenia, however, appears unconvinced that a ceasefire agreement alone is sufficient grounds for Israel’s participation in the upcoming contest.
The Chair of RTV Slovenia’s Management Board, Natalija Gorščak, stated that it would be “more reasonable for the EBU to exclude Israel this year” in order to avoid potential political tensions. She described the cancellation of next month’s planned vote on Israel’s participation as unfortunate.
EBU’s decision
The European Broadcasting Union decided to cancel the extraordinary vote that was to determine whether Israel would be allowed to compete in Eurovision 2026 in Vienna. The decision, which was to be made by a majority of member broadcasters, was withdrawn due to “developments in the Middle East,” including the signing of a peace framework for Gaza and the temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Speaking to TV Slovenija, Gorščak said:
“A simple ceasefire cannot be the reason to immediately agree that Israel can return to Eurovision.”
She added:
“It might be wiser for the EBU to exclude Israel this year and avoid the political consequences that could follow. But ultimately, it is up to them to decide.”
So far, Slovenia remains the only country among those that previously threatened to boycott Eurovision 2026 should Israel participate, that maintains—despite the recent developments in Gaza—that the peace agreement is not enough and that Israel should still be barred from the competition.
Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the latest updates!
Source: TVSLO