Singer Noam Bettan returned to Israel on Sunday after securing second place at the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, marking the country's second consecutive runner-up finish. He and the national broadcasting delegation landed at Ben Gurion Airport to a warm reception celebrating the achievement.

Speaking at a press conference upon arrival, Bettan expressed gratitude and described the experience as a moment of profound unity for both himself and many across the country. He thanked God for the opportunity and emphasized how meaningful the shared experience had been.

Bettan used the occasion to call for solidarity beyond moments of celebration. He urged people to treat one another with kindness and to give each other the benefit of the doubt, not only during national highs but also in everyday life. He also hinted at upcoming projects and surprises in the next stage of his career.

At the airport reception, the head of the national public broadcaster said that Israel's participation in the contest had been uncertain months earlier. He warned that exclusion could have triggered wider cultural and sporting boycotts, but said efforts to reverse the decision ensured Israel's place on the Eurovision stage, culminating in the strong result in Vienna.