Israel has advanced to the final of the Eurovision Song Contest with the pop song Michelle, performed by 28-year-old Noam Bettan. The upbeat, romantic track secured enough votes during the semi-final to earn a place in the competition's final round.

The event has faced renewed controversy due to Israel's military action in Gaza. Five countries, including seven-time winner Ireland, have boycotted the 2026 contest in protest.

During the semi-final performance, Bettan received a mixed reaction from the audience, with some booing and shouting anti-Israeli slogans while others chanted his name in support. Ahead of the show, he said he was focused on the music and intended to treat criticism as 'background noise'.