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Noam Bettan to fly Israel’s flag at Eurovision amid boycott storm
Singer wins Rising Star final as Israel remains in contest despite mounting cultural and political backlash
Noam Bettan has been selected to represent Israel at the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, securing the role after winning the televised Hakochav Haba (Rising Star) final.
The 27-year-old singer, from Ra’anana, was born in Israel to French immigrant parents and will perform in Vienna this May following his victory in the season finale aired on Keshet 12. Israel’s participation is organised by public broadcaster Kan.
Bettan’s selection comes against the backdrop of sustained opposition to Israel’s inclusion in this year’s contest, with calls from artists and campaigners to exclude the country over the war against Hamas in Gaza.
When Rising Star launched in November, Israel’s place at Eurovision was still uncertain. However, last month, members of the European Broadcasting Union voted decisively to keep Israel in the competition.
That decision triggered a boycott by several participating countries, including Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Spain and Slovenia, which have said they will not take part in this year’s event in protest.
Speaking to Kan Gimmel radio following his win, Bettan acknowledged the hostile environment he expects to face in Austria but framed his participation as a responsibility rather than a burden.
“It’s entering the lion’s den,” he said. “But I can say that seeing those few Israeli flags in the audience – look at that, and know that there’s a whole nation behind you, and you’re their voice. It’s truly a privilege.”
The song Bettan will perform has not yet been announced. Kan confirmed it will be unveiled in March after being chosen by a professional committee overseeing Israel’s Eurovision entry.
Israel has won the Eurovision Song Contest four times and remains one of its most scrutinised participants, with Bettan’s appearance set to unfold under intense political and cultural pressure.
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