At Least four Countries Withdraw from 2026 Eurovision Song Contest Amid Israel participation Debate
Geneva – At least four european broadcasters have announced they will not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, citing concerns over Israel’s inclusion in the competition following the ongoing conflict in gaza. Spain, Ireland, finland, and Iceland have all confirmed their withdrawals, escalating a controversy that has increasingly politicized the annual event.
The decisions stem from objections to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and its continued restrictions on international journalist access to the territory. Some broadcasters, who operate national news programs, pointed to the deaths of journalists during the conflict as a key factor in their decision.
“Next year’s edition is certainly going to be one of the most politicized ever,” said Dr.Maan Vuletic, a Eurovision expert, adding that the contest’s 70th anniversary, intended as a celebration, “is going to be shrouded in political controversy yet again.”
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision, has faced mounting pressure to address the situation. Golan Yochpaz, chief executive of Israeli broadcaster KAN, questioned whether EBU members were “willing to be part of a step that harms freedom of creation and freedom of expression.” KAN maintains it was not involved in any attempts to influence past contest results,specifically referencing Yuval Raphael’s second-place finish at the 2024 contest in Basel,Switzerland.
Eurovision, traditionally focused on showcasing pop music, has repeatedly found itself entangled in geopolitical events. Russia was expelled from the competition in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine. Pro-Palestinian protests have occurred outside the last two contests, held in Basel in May and Malmo, Sweden, in 2024.
The conflict in Gaza has considerably heightened tensions surrounding the contest. Opponents of Israel’s participation cite the high death toll in Gaza, with the territory’s Health Ministry – operating under Hamas – reporting over 70,000 fatalities. Israel defends its military campaign as a response to the october 7, 2023, attack by Hamas-led militants, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and the abduction of 251 hostages.
Allegations of genocide have been leveled against Israel by some experts, including those commissioned by a U.N. body, claims Israel vehemently denies.
The withdrawals raise concerns about viewership and funding for Eurovision,as several broadcasters are already facing financial pressures. Spain is one of the “Big Five” countries that contribute the most financially to the contest, while Ireland holds the record for most wins, sharing it with Sweden at seven victories each.
The controversy also casts a shadow over the planned return of Bulgaria, Moldova, and Romania to the contest in 2026 after periods of absence due to financial and artistic considerations.
