The only issue of music proves this year that it is not the Eurovision music competition, as many European countries have threatened to not participate in May in the Austrian event unless Israel is excluded.

For its part, EBU has announced that the decision will be taken in an extraordinary vote of its members in November.

Speaking today about the possibility of Israel’s exclusion, the German Chancellor (Big5 Country) warned: “If Israel leaves, we will leave too.”

Friedrich Mertz talked about a “scandal” and left Germany openly if this happens.

“I think it’s a scandal that this is even discussed. Israel has a place in the competition,” Mr Mertz said in an interview on the first channel of German public television ARD.

Answering a question about whether, in the event of Israel’s exclusion, Germany should voluntarily retire from the event, he said: “I would support.”

However, according to a poll on behalf of ARD, 65% of Germans believe that artists and athletes from Israel should not be punished for the actions of the Israeli government, while 24% argue that the country would be properly excluded from international organizations to put pressure on the country.

Split on eBu

Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Iceland and Ireland have officially announced that they will not go on the same scene as Israel, while many other countries are awaiting the results of the vote to make their definitive decisions.

On the contrary, Germany, Austria, Italy (until time) and Luxembourg are in favor of the participation of Israel, while Greece and Cyprus also appear positive.

Austria, organizing country, is in a difficult position. He wishes to keep the competition away from political conflicts and to prevent any boycott because of Israel’s participation.

The organizers point out that Eurovision is a celebration of music and unity rather than a field of political controversy. However, voices from various aspects are calling for Israel’s exclusion, with the Vienna government seeking balance and preserving the image of the competition.

In short, Austria wants the Eurovision slogan to remain “United by Music” and not “divided by politics”, which now seems impossible.