The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest has come under renewed controversy after viewers accused organisers of censoring pro-Palestinian chants during Israel’s semi-final performance in Vienna, Austria, on 13 May. Israel’s contestant, Noam Bettan, qualified for the grand final despite disruptions inside the arena and growing calls for boycotts over the Genocide in Gaza.
During Bettan’s performance of “Michelle”, some audience members shouted slogans including “Stop the genocide” and “Free Palestine”, according to multiple reports and videos shared online. Protesters were later removed from the venue by security staff. While some chants were audible during the live broadcast, critics claimed the official Eurovision uploads and television mix reduced or edited out parts of the protest audio.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organises Eurovision, has faced mounting criticism over Israel’s participation amid the Gaza war. Five countries — Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia and the Netherlands — reportedly boycotted the 2026 contest. According to recent reports, more than 72,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 2023.
