Israel is set to compete in the first Eurovision Song Contest semi-final on May 12 in Vienna, facing 14 other nations. This year's event, marking its 70th anniversary, has seen a record boycott with five countries withdrawing due to concerns over Israel's participation and its conduct in the Gaza war. Despite the boycott, 35 countries are participating, the lowest number since 2004. Ten songs from each semi-final will advance to the final, joining the automatically qualified host country and major financial contributors.