Should politics and culture mix? Eurovision 2026: inside the controversy

Eurovision has hit a "bum note" over the participation of Israel in this year's song contest. Demonstrations are planned in Vienna against the presence of Noam Bettan and his song "Michelle." He succeeded in getting through the semi final 24 hours ago, but his appearance was greeted by chants of "Stop the Genocide." Five nations who usually take part have pulled out in protest, including serial Eurovision winners Ireland. The Netherlands, Spain and Iceland are the others.