JJ calls for Israel to be excluded from Eurovision 2026!

Scandal surrounding the vote. Did Israel manipulate the results?

Israel placed second at the Eurovision 2025 final, which quickly caused a media storm. According to numerous reports, the Israeli Foreign Ministry allegedly supported the campaign of its representative Juwal Rafael by buying up SIM cards and influencing the viewers’ vote.

In response to these reports, the Spanish TV channel RTVE, as well as the Belgian VRT, among others, called for an independent audit of the results. In their view, irregularities may have occurred that distorted the rules of fair competition.

See also: Justyna Steczkowska dazzles at Eurovision 2025!

Eurovision 2025 winner comments on voting controversy

This year’s winner of the contest, JJ from Austria, also joined the critics. Speaking to Spanish media, he expressed his disappointment at the decision to allow Israel to compete:

It is very disappointing that Israel is still part of the competition. I would like the event to be held next year in Vienna – without Israel, but this is a matter that is up to the EBU, not us artists.

The singer’s words instantly circulated social media, triggering an avalanche of comments – both support and opposition.

Politics and music – the line is becoming increasingly blurred

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez was also involved in the controversy, pointing out the use of “double standards” by the organisers. Similar opinions were expressed by representatives of broadcasters from Belgium and the Netherlands. In their view, Eurovision should remain an apolitical and unifying event and not a tool of political pressure.

The example of Russia, which has not been allowed to participate in the contest since 2022, is also mentioned here. There are increasing claims that similar measures should be applied to Israel.

Will Israel be excluded from Eurovision 2026?

The debate on Israel’s participation in the next editions of Eurovision is gaining momentum. Pressure from the public and the artistic community may force the EBU to take firm decisions. For now, however, the official position of the organisers remains unchanged – Israel is still a member of the European Broadcasting Union and has the right to take part in the contest.