Overview

• RTÉ said on 11 September it will not take part in Eurovision 2026 if Israel competes, calling participation unconscionable given the loss of life in Gaza.
• The broadcaster cited concerns about the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza, restrictions on international media access, and the plight of remaining hostages.
• RTÉ’s final decision hinges on the EBU’s ruling, with a no‑penalty withdrawal window extended to December and participation confirmations due by mid‑December, according to contest director Martin Green.
• Spain’s culture minister, Slovenia’s RTVSLO, and Iceland’s RÚV have issued similar conditional withdrawal signals if Israel is included.
• Israel’s broadcaster KAN says it intends to compete in Vienna and comply with contest rules, as recent contests in Malmö and Basel drew large protests and Ireland’s seven past wins underscore the stakes.