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Key Points
- The Irish broadcaster RTE has stated that Ireland will refrain from entering Eurovision 2026 if Israel is permitted to join.
- Organisers of Eurovision are still assessing how to handle participation and geopolitical challenges.
- Both the Eurovision 2025 victor JJ and the president of Spain have advocated for Israel’s exclusion from the contest.
RTE has noted that multiple EBU members expressed unease about Israel’s participation during a discussion in July.
“RTE believes Ireland’s involvement would be inconceivable given the severe and tragic loss of life in Gaza,” stated the broadcaster in an announcement.
Organisers ‘consulting’ on geopolitical tensions
“Broadcasters have until mid-December to declare if they will partake in next year’s event in Vienna. Membership allows each broadcaster the choice to participate, and we respect any decision they reach.”
Ireland has participated in the contest since 1965 and won seven times, with only Sweden matching its record number of victories.
Spain and Eurovision 2025 winner also call for Israel’s exclusion
Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest has overshadowed the event in recent years. Source: Getty / Harold Cunningham
Sánchez said “no-one was shocked” when Russia was asked to withdraw from such events after it invaded Ukraine.
