Ireland Announces That They Will Withdraw From Eurovision 2026 If Israel Is Allowed To Participate
Irish broadcaster RTÉ has announced that Ireland will not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is allowed to take part. The broadcaster referenced the "ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza" and expressed "deep concern" over the killing of journalists, restricted media access, and the situation of hostages. RTÉ emphasized that it would be "unconscionable" for Ireland to participate under these conditions.
This move follows a wave of protests around Israel’s Eurovision involvement in previous years and increasing pressure on the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) from members, including Slovenia and Spain. RTÉ acknowledged the EBU's consultation process and welcomed the extension of the opt-out deadline to December, saying a final decision will come once the EBU rules on Israel’s participation.
Ireland, which has won the contest seven times, joins a growing list of countries reconsidering their involvement. Eurovision director Martin Green said the EBU is still gathering views on how to handle "geopolitical tensions" and that broadcasters are free to decide whether or not to compete.
