Which year was the first in which Israel competed at the Eurovision Song Contest?

Explanation

Israel's first ever entry to the Eurovision Song Contest was in 1973. They gained a space because both Austria and Malta decided not to participate. It was quite a surprise to many that a Middle-eastern country could participate, but as members of the European Broadcasting Union they were eligible to compete. Due to the massacre at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, security was tightened for the event. The audience was asked to remain in their seats throughout the show so as not to be shot by security guards, and the Israeli singer, Ilanit, is said to have worn a bullet-proof vest.