European Nations Boycott Eurovision 2026 Over Israel’s Participation Amid Gaza Conflict
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, several European nations are boycotting Eurovision 2026 in response to Israel’s participation. The decision follows the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) approval of Israel’s presence in the upcoming competition, despite growing demands for its exclusion due to the war in Gaza.
During a general assembly meeting, the EBU addressed concerns but did not hold a vote regarding Israel’s participation. Instead, new regulations were approved aimed at curbing government and foreign entity interference in song promotion. The EBU stated that a majority of members saw no need for a revote, and the contest would proceed as planned.
In response, the Irish broadcaster RTE announced it would neither participate in nor cover the contest, deeming Ireland’s involvement unacceptable given the “horrific killings in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis threatening civilian lives.”
Spain’s RTVE also declared its withdrawal from broadcasting Eurovision, describing the decision-making process as inadequate and suspicious. Spanish Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun supported the decision, stating, “Israel’s image cannot be cleansed in the shadow of the crimes in Gaza. Culture must stand with peace and justice.”
The Dutch broadcaster Avrotros similarly announced that participation in the contest was incompatible with its core values. Slovenia’s RTVSLO, which initially threatened a boycott, also views Israel’s participation as contrary to values of peace and equality.
The recent EBU meeting led to the passage of rules designed to prevent governmental and foreign advertising, concerns that arose after Israel’s strong showing in the previous contest’s public vote. However, these changes have not satisfied many countries, leading to their decision to boycott.
Eurovision 2026 is scheduled to take place in Vienna, Austria. While nations like Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland have supported continued participation, Germany and Austria have experienced political debates regarding Israel’s involvement.
Russia was previously banned from the competition in 2022 due to the invasion of Ukraine. Israel, however, has participated in the contest for the past two years despite widespread protests and has won four times since joining in 1973.
Eurovision is an annual music event that has been held since 1956.
According to the Ministry of Health in Gaza, the total number of victims of Israel’s war in Gaza since October 7, 2023, has reached 70,125 martyrs and 171,000 injured.
