Broadcasters Urge Israel Ban from 2025 Eurovision

Over 70 former Eurovision contestants, including past winners, have signed an open letter urging the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to ban Israel and its broadcaster KAN from the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, citing accusations of genocide in Gaza, occupation of Palestinian territories, and alleged incitement by KAN. The letter claims the EBU is applying a double standard by allowing Israel to participate after banning Russia in 2022, and blames Israel's presence for last year's contest being unusually politicized and chaotic. The signatories also accuse KAN of complicity with Israeli government actions. The EBU has responded by emphasizing Eurovision's mission to promote diversity and inclusion through music, stating that its members are broadcasters rather than governments. Israel denies the genocide accusations, which remain under review at the International Court of Justice. Despite growing calls from music professionals and European broadcasters to exclude Israel, the country is still scheduled to participate in the 2025 contest in Basel, Switzerland.