Reports surrounding a possible move of Israel from Eurovision to Eurovision Asia have sparked debate following claims published by Israeli outlet Ynet.
Ynet reports on internal EBU discussions
According to Ynet, closed discussions within the European Broadcasting Union explored the possibility of moving Israel from the main Eurovision Song Contest to the upcoming Eurovision Asia competition.
The report claims the proposal emerged amid ongoing controversy surrounding Israel’s participation in Eurovision in recent years, particularly following the withdrawal of Spain, Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia from Eurovision 2026.
Sources cited by the israeli outlet stated that exploratory talks were allegedly held with countries already linked to Eurovision Asia, as well as broadcasters still considering participation in the new event.
However, according to the same sources, the proposal reportedly faced partial opposition from both confirmed and potential participants, making the move unlikely (especially ahead of this year’s inaugural edition).
One source told Ynet:
“Decisions haven’t been made yet, but the option was indeed put on the table. Eurovision Asia is in its infancy, and many evaluations are currently ongoing”
Eurovision Asia rules revealed
The EBU also said broadcasters participating in the main European Eurovision Song Contest would not be eligible to compete in Eurovision Asia. The organisation added:
“The event, like Eurovision, will be inclusive and celebrate being united by music. Decisions regarding participation are made by the organisers”
It remains unclear whether another broadcaster from the same country could theoretically participate in Eurovision Asia, as EBU membership is reportedly not required for the Asian contest.
Eurovision Asia is currently scheduled to debut this November in Bangkok, with countries including South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Nepal, Cambodia, and the Philippines linked to the project.
Martin Green rejects speculation
Following the publication of the reports, Eurovision director Martin Green denied that any such discussions are taking place.
Speaking to Dutch newspaper Het Parool, Green described the claims as “complete nonsense”.
“I have no idea where that story came from. Whether it would even be a good idea is totally irrelevant, because it’s simply not being discussed”
Green also stated that the matter was “totally not on the table”.
Israel and Eurovision
Israel has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest since 1973 and remains one of the Contest’s most successful non-European countries, with four victories to date.
In recent years, however, Israel’s participation has become increasingly controversial among some broadcasters and audiences. The debate intensified ahead of Eurovision 2026, ultimately leading to the withdrawal of Spain, Slovenia, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Iceland after the EBU General Assembly voted to maintain Israel’s participation in the Contest.
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News Source: Ylet, Het Parool
Photo Credit: Alma Bengtsson / EBU
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