Eurovision 2026 at Risk: Four Countries Announce Boycott Over Israel

Israel Will Participate in Eurovision 2026

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has allowed Israel to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, which has sparked controversies among EU member countries. In response, Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia have announced a boycott of the competition.

The countries boycotting Eurovision cite serious concerns regarding the military conflict in Gaza and the worsening humanitarian situation. They believe Israel's participation in the contest is incompatible with its neutrality.

Slovenia has confirmed its decision to boycott the contest, joining other countries.

EBU stated that it is introducing new regulations to protect Eurovision from political influence and will not vote on Israel's participation. Now participating countries must adhere to neutrality to take part in the competition.

Israel's Reaction to Participation in the Contest

The Israeli government and opposition have positively reacted to the country's inclusion in Eurovision, considering the boycott attempts a cultural pretext. Leaders hope that the contest will promote cultural understanding.

The Israeli Foreign Minister Gidon Saar described the attempts to exclude Israel from the contest as a 'cultural boycott.'

Some countries express criticism over the inadequacy of measures that the EBU has taken to ensure the contest's neutrality. Changes in Israel's ranking during voting have also triggered negative sentiments.

Overall, Israel's decision to participate in Eurovision 2026 has caused disputes and reactions from other participating countries due to concerns about the political situation in the region.