Overview
- Spanish and Belgian broadcasters RTVE and VRT have formally requested an investigation into Eurovision's televoting process after Israel won the public vote but finished second overall.
- Eurovision's televoting system allows up to 20 votes per user with minimal verification, raising concerns about potential manipulation and lack of transparency.
- Pro-Palestine protests disrupted Israeli contestant Yuval Raphael's performance, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions surrounding Israel's participation.
- Critics, including Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, have questioned Israel's inclusion, citing double standards compared to Russia's exclusion in 2022.
- Eurovision organizers defend the voting system as highly advanced and independently monitored but acknowledge broadcaster concerns and promise discussions on potential reforms.