Story perspectives

Israel Joins Eurovision Amid Historic Boycotts and Controversy

1/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israel will participate in the Eurovision semi-final on May 12, 2025, in Vienna, despite five-country boycotts.
The contest faces its largest political boycott, with 35 countries competing, the fewest since 2004.
Israel has not yet chosen its entrant, with HaKokhav Haba's finale on January 20, 2025.
The European Broadcasting Union has implemented reforms to improve voting integrity.
Past Eurovision winners have protested the decision to keep Israel in the contest.

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Story summary

Israel will participate in the Eurovision semi-final on May 12, 2025, in Vienna, despite five-country boycotts.
The contest faces its largest political boycott, with 35 countries competing, the fewest since 2004.
Israel has not yet chosen its entrant, with HaKokhav Haba's finale on January 20, 2025.
The European Broadcasting Union has implemented reforms to improve voting integrity.
Past Eurovision winners have protested the decision to keep Israel in the contest.