Overview

• An Israeli report via Ynet said figures linked to the EBU floated an unofficial request for Israel to withdraw from Eurovision 2026 or perform under a neutral flag, a claim the union disputes.
• The EBU told Middle East Eye the Ynet story was false and stated it has not suggested withdrawal or neutral-flag participation to Israel’s broadcaster, Kan.
• The union said a consultation with its wider membership is underway and that no decisions on Israel’s eligibility will be taken until that process finishes.
• Multiple broadcasters, including those in the Netherlands, Ireland and Spain, have threatened to skip the 2026 contest if Israel competes, with Spain’s culture minister urging exclusion despite Spain’s Big Five status.
• Key milestones include a December General Assembly in Geneva and a mid-December deadline for broadcasters to confirm participation, as the 2026 contest is slated for Vienna after Austria’s 2025 win.