US EditionIsrael Approved for 2026 Eurovision; Spain and the Netherlands Announce Withdrawal
Spain, Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia boycott Eurovision 2026 after EBU rejects demands to exclude Israel amid Gaza war and voting interference allegations.
- On Thursday, the European Broadcasting Union in Geneva approved rule changes that cleared the way for Israel to participate in Eurovision 2026 in Vienna after broadcasters dropped a proposed ballot.
- In recent months, several broadcasters signalled boycotts over Israel's participation, citing the Gaza war and AVROTROS accusing `proven interference by the Israeli government during the last edition of the Song Contest`.
- The European Broadcasting Union adopted a package of reforms in a secret ballot on Thursday, including curbs on government-backed promotions, halved public voting limits, reinstated professional juries, and enhanced technical safeguards, while EBU President Delphine Ernotte Cunci thanked members for their constructive contributions this year.
- AVROTROS and RTVE immediately said they will not participate in Eurovision 2026, prompting the Netherlands and Spain to withdraw from Vienna; broadcasters must confirm participation before Dec. 25.
- A senior EBU official said the organisation faces `a major challenge` amid cancellations, while Austria welcomed Israel's participation and Germany warned diplomatic tensions will continue.
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What to know about the Eurovision Song Contest as Israel’s participation sparks walkouts
The Eurovision Song Contest, which aims to be an upbeat celebration of music and unity, is facing the biggest crisis in its seven-decade history after four countries walked out of the competition over Israel’s participation and others weighed whether to join the boycott.
After the decision to allow Israel at the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest, several countries announced their boycott – and promptly get themselves criticized.
The ESC is under tremendous pressure, but according to the European Broadcasting Union, the boycott wave has no impact on its financing. Around 35 countries are currently expected.
Ireland Joins Boycott of Eurovision Over Israel’s Participation.
PULSE POINTSWHAT HAPPENED: Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia announced they will boycott the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest due to Israel’s participation.WHO WAS INVOLVED: Broadcasters from Ireland (RTE), Spain (RTVE), the Netherlands (Avrotros), and Slovenia (RTV), and Israeli President Isaac Herzog.WHEN & WHERE: The boycott affects the Eurovision Song Contest in 2026, with decisions announced in late 2025.KEY QUOTE: “Participation re…
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