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Netherlands Join Ireland in Threatening Eurovision 2026 Boycott Over Israel’s Inclusion

The EBU will review participation rules in early December under an extended mid-December withdrawal window.

Overview

  • AVROTROS said the Netherlands would not take part if Israel competes, citing severe humanitarian suffering in Gaza, curbs on press freedom and alleged interference at the 2025 contest in Basel.
  • RTÉ stated Ireland deems participation untenable given ongoing civilian deaths in Gaza and concerns over journalist killings and restricted media access.
  • Slovenia previously signaled it would not participate if Israel is included, while Spain and Iceland say they are weighing withdrawal.
  • The EBU has launched consultations with members, postponing a decision process to early December and allowing broadcasters to opt out without penalty until mid-December.
  • Host broadcaster ORF says it welcomes Israel’s participation, and Israel’s EBU member KAN remains formally eligible under current rules.