Overview
- Iceland’s broadcaster RÚV formally notified the EBU of its withdrawal on the Dec. 10 confirmation deadline, citing a lack of public support for participation.
- The decision follows earlier exits by Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland and Slovenia after the EBU kept Israel eligible for 2026.
- At last week’s EBU general assembly, members approved tougher voting safeguards to deter government or third‑party influence but took no vote to exclude Israel.
- The EBU says remaining participants will not face higher fees, with a final list of competing nations due before Christmas.
- National responses diverged, with Poland and Belgium’s RTBF confirming participation and figures such as Johnny Logan backing boycotts, while Israel’s president welcomed the EBU stance.