The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has postponed the vote on whether Israel will be allowed to participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. The decision follows recent developments in the Middle East and a ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

Austria, which will host next year’s contest in Vienna, had urged countries not to boycott the event over Israel’s participation, amid concerns stemming from the two-year conflict in Gaza. Eurovision, known for its official political neutrality, became a point of contention this year, with several countries indicating they might withdraw if Israel were involved.

Austria’s public broadcaster, ORF, welcomed the EBU’s decision. According to an EBU statement, the issue will now be discussed at the Winter General Assembly in December, rather than at an extraordinary online meeting initially planned for November.

The EBU executive board emphasized that, in light of recent Middle East developments, members will meet in person to discuss Israel’s participation in the 2026 contest. Details on whether the Israeli network KAN will eventually be allowed to participate are yet to be confirmed, with further announcements expected in the coming weeks.