Overview

• Yuval Raphael, representing Israel, won the public televote with 297 points but finished second overall in Eurovision 2025 due to lower jury scores.
• Austria’s JJ, this year’s winner, has called for Israel to be excluded from the 2026 contest in Vienna, aligning with Spain’s prime minister and other critics.
• Several broadcasters, including those from Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain, have formally requested a detailed audit of the televoting results over concerns of potential manipulation.
• Pro-Palestinian protests disrupted Raphael’s performance in Basel, including an attempted stage incursion and audience booing, highlighting ongoing tensions over Israel’s participation.
• The European Broadcasting Union has acknowledged these concerns and plans to review the contest’s rules and voting processes with participating broadcasters ahead of Eurovision 2026.