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Israel Drawn Into Eurovision's First Semi-Final on May 12 After Boycotts Trim Lineup

EBU reforms follow 2025 televote disputes, bringing back juries alongside stricter fraud detection.

Israel will compete against 14 other countries in the first semi-final

Overview

  • Israel will compete in Vienna's first semi-final against 14 countries, with the performance slated in the second half of the May 12 show.
  • Five public broadcasters—Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain—have confirmed they will not take part this year over Israel’s inclusion.
  • This year’s contest features 35 participants, the smallest field since the expansion in 2004, following withdrawals and the finalized draw.
  • From each semi-final, the 10 highest-scoring entries advance based on combined professional jury assessments and a public vote.
  • Austria qualifies automatically as host, as do major financial contributors France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom.