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In a sudden reversal amid mounting pressure and political uncertainty across Europe, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has cancelled the extraordinary vote scheduled for November to decide Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. Instead, the matter will now be addressed at the EBU’s regular winter General Assembly scheduled for December.
The news, confirmed by Austrian host broadcaster ORF, comes following new developments in the Middle East and continuing peace negotiations. In a statement citing “recent developments in the Middle East”, EBU executives said the question of Israel’s Eurovision participation requires a broader consultation rather than an urgent online ballot.
The controversy surrounding Israel’s involvement – triggered by the war in Gaza and persistent calls from several countries to exclude Israel – has reached a fever pitch in recent weeks. Notably, broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands have threatened to withdraw from next year’s competition if Israel is permitted to participate, raising the prospect of a significantly reduced line-up for the 70th anniversary edition in Vienna.
News of the November vote’s cancellation has been met with cautious approval from some broadcasters. ORF, which will host Eurovision 2026 in Vienna, “welcomed the decision” to defer the matter to December. In Germany, where public opinion on the issue is divided, officials had reportedly urged the EBU to avoid a rush decision – with Germany’s chancellor even warning that his country would reconsider participation if Israel were kicked out. The shift to a broader discussion in December appears to align with those appeals for restraint.
Israel’s public broadcaster Kan, for its part, has consistently defended its right to remain in the competition. Kan said it hopes the Eurovision Song Contest “will continue to uphold its cultural and non-political identity” despite the war. The broadcaster argues that removing Israel – a four-time Eurovision winner – would betray the contest’s spirit. It noted that Israel is “one of the veteran, most popular and successful competitors” and warned that exclusion could carry “significant consequences” as Eurovision prepares to mark its 70th anniversary. Kan’s executives have been lobbying behind the scenes; Israel’s president, Isaac Herzog, even convened a special team to help prevent Israel’s removal from Eurovision.
A regular General Assembly, with directors-general of all member broadcasters, is set for 4–5 December. The agenda will now include a full session on Eurovision 2026 participation, giving members a forum to air their views face-to-face. Eurovision organisers have extended the deadline for countries to confirm 2026 participation to mid-December.
