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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Philipp Jenne

Eurovision begins in Vienna amid Israel boycott row and heightened security

Eurovision (Organization) Israel Vienna EBU
  • The Eurovision Song Contest commences on Tuesday in Vienna, with its 70th anniversary overshadowed by significant divisions regarding Israel's participation.
  • Five nations, including Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland, are boycotting the competition in protest of Israel's inclusion, following previous pro-Palestinian demonstrations at past events.
  • Vienna is under tight security, with police from across Austria and Germany deployed, due to planned pro-Palestinian demonstrations and an ongoing high terror threat level.
  • Israeli singer Noam Bettan is set to compete in Tuesday's semi-final, aiming for a place in Saturday's grand final, despite the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) having rejected calls to expel Israel.
  • The EBU has introduced stricter voting regulations, reducing the number of votes per person and enhancing safeguards against suspicious activity, with an expert expressing confidence in Eurovision's ability to navigate these challenges.

IN FULL

Eurovision 2026 live: Semi-final updates as Israel, Finland and Greece battle for spot in the final

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