Ran Boker

Hours before the Eurovision final in Vienna, hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters marched against Israel’s participation, waving Palestinian, Iranian and Lebanese flags as Noam Bettan prepared to perform 'Michelle'

Noam Bettan delivered a stunning performance of 'Michelle' at the Eurovision final in Vienna; he is currently fifth in the betting odds, and the arena greeted him with loud cheers that drowned out the boos

Spanish broadcaster RTVE aired an anti-Israel protest message during Eurovision, saying 'human rights are not a competition' and calling for 'peace and justice for Palestine'; Spain is not competing, so EBU sanctions are unlikely

Israel finished second at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 for the second straight year as Noam Bettan earned 220 public points and 123 jury points for his performance of 'Michel'; Bulgaria won the contest in Vienna.

Israel finishes second at Eurovision 2026 with a strong public vote and improved jury support, as Noam Bettan and 'Michelle' earn 343 points and points from 22 of 34 juries plus Poland’s top score after years of limited backing

Despite Noam Bettan’s strong result and reports Bulgaria may not host, Israeli officials say bringing Eurovision to Israel next year is highly unlikely amid boycotts and political tensions

Bettan, who finished second in Vienna, hosted at Jerusalem residence of president, who praised the incredible achievement; 'Perhaps a Michelle will also come into your life soon'

European Broadcasting Union warns that placing Kan’s budget under government control could undermine its independence, damage Israel’s democratic image and threaten its place in international events

Razel, who has has reached broad audiences with his Jewish and faith-based music, has been hospitalized at Shaare Zedek Medical Center for several days following a brain hemorrhage

Assaf Blecher opens up about international productions, reality TV manipulation, the failure of ‘The Americans’ and why moving Israel to Eurovision Asia is unlikely