The Latest Breaking News from Yuval Raphael

Conchita Wurst was expected to play a key role at the forthcoming Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna in May. While the decision is rooted in personal and creative evolution, the withdrawl comes amid growing boycott for the 2026 event.

The contest, which turns 70 in 2026, strives to put pop before politics, but has repeatedly been embroiled in world events.

The 2026 contest will be held in Vienna

The contest, whose 70th edition is scheduled for Vienna in May, pits acts from dozens of nations against one another for the continent's musical crown.

Eurovision is changing its voting system, following allegations of "interference" by Israel's government this year. Key changes include a cap on audience voting, the return of professional juries to the semi-finals, clearer rules around promotion of artists, and enhanced security safeguards.

Israel has been a participant in Eurovision, established after World War II to provide a forum for peaceful competition among nations, since 1973.

Hamas said Wednesday that "optimism" was prevailing in indirect talks with Israel aimed at ending the Gaza war, with the militant group submitting a list of prisoners it wants released in exchange for freeing Israeli hostages as part of an agreement.

Dublin's pro-Palestinian positions are rooted in Ireland's experience of the British occupation and anti-colonial policies, experts tell Euronews.

In a statement, director Martin Green said he did not want questions surrounding Eurovision voting to overshadow JJ’s win for Austria