On July 6, 2025, former Israeli Eurovision delegate Amir Alon revealed to N12News that Germany and Italy—two of the “Big 5” financial pillars of the Eurovision Song Contest—have warned the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) that they may withdraw from the competition if Israel is excluded without clear legal grounds. Reported by G.Business, citing EurovisionFun.

Political divisions deepen in Eurovision 2026

The growing political tension surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict is now visibly affecting the Eurovision Song Contest. Countries are forming two camps: those supporting Israel’s continued participation, and those calling for its exclusion. Germany and Italy have firmly aligned with Israeli broadcaster KAN, demanding that any decision to exclude Israel must be based on legal criteria, not political pressure.

“As long as the war in Gaza continues and images reach European viewers, it will be hard for countries like Germany and Italy to publicly defend Israel,” Alon explained. “But both nations are top financial contributors to Eurovision and are in direct contact with the EBU. If KAN is excluded, they have made it clear they may pull out too. The EBU wants to avoid this outcome.”

Legal distinctions: Israel is not Russia or Belarus

KAN emphasizes its editorial independence from the Israeli government and claims full compliance with EBU regulations. The EBU itself acknowledged this in an official statement following its latest General Assembly. This places Israel in a different category from Russia and Belarus, whose public broadcasters were banned for serving as state propaganda outlets.

December deadline looms

Israel’s fate in the 2026 contest hinges on the evolving political climate. If the war ends by December, when the next EBU General Assembly takes place, Israel is likely to remain a participant. However, if conflict continues, even its current supporters may struggle to justify its presence.

A potential exclusion would apply for just one year, according to Eurovision rules.

Supporters and opponents

Countries openly supporting Israel’s exclusion include Iceland, Spain, and reportedly Slovenia, though the latter has not issued an official statement.

On the other side, in addition to Germany and Italy, countries such as Greece, Cyprus, Azerbaijan, Switzerland (host of Eurovision 2025), and Austria (host of Eurovision 2026) have expressed open support for Israel’s participation. The next months will be critical in defining Eurovision’s future political landscape.

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Foto -  Yuval Raphael