Iceland boycotts Eurovision Contest 2026 over Israel participation
Iceland’s public broadcaster, RUV, issued a statement on Wednesday declaring that it would neither send a representative nor broadcast the event. The network explained that its decision reflects broad public resistance within Iceland to Israel’s involvement, as well as dissatisfaction with how the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) handled concerns raised by multiple member broadcasters. RUV noted that it had asked the EBU to permit a formal vote on Israel’s eligibility, but the proposal was rejected.
In its announcement, RUV stated that “It is clear that neither joy nor peace will prevail regarding the participation of RUV in Eurovision.”
Several networks had previously pushed for Israel’s exclusion due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and accusations of vote manipulation during the 2025 contest, which some argued had benefited Israel.
Eurovision organizers have maintained that Israel continues to satisfy all contest criteria and will be allowed to compete in 2026. In response to ongoing disputes linked to the Gaza situation, the EBU has implemented updated rules designed to limit political or state influence on entries and voting procedures.
The recent withdrawals by Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands were all tied to Israel’s participation and the EBU’s refusal to reconsider the matter. Spain’s departure was particularly notable given its status as one of the contest’s major financial backers, while Ireland remains the most decorated nation in Eurovision history.
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