Israel makes Eurovision grand final after protestor ‘forcibly removed’ during performance

Amid controversy, Israel has progressed to the grand final of Eurovision 2026 (Picture: Tobias SCHWARZ / AFP via Getty Images)

Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has officially returned for its 70th year — and while the first semi-final saw countries battling for a place in Saturday’s Grand Final, it was Israel’s qualification that once again sparked the most controversy.

Hosted in Vienna after Austrian winner JJ triumphed last year, the first semi-final saw 15 countries take to the stage at the Wiener Stadthalle on Tuesday night, all hoping to secure one of just 10 available spots in the final.

But as Israeli contestant Noam Bettan performed his entry Michelle, viewers claimed they could hear boos and pro-Palestine c...