Earlier today, Ireland’s public broadcaster RTÉ issued a strong statement regarding the country’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, making clear that it would not take part should Israel’s entry be confirmed.
In its official announcement, RTÉ cited grave concerns over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the killing of journalists, restrictions on media access, and the plight of hostages still held in the region. The broadcaster stressed that its final decision depends on the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which has allowed members to withdraw without penalties until December.
Developments escalated further this evening. On RTÉ’s main evening news, the broadcaster declared that Ireland will not only withdraw from the competition but also refuse to broadcast the contest at all if Israel remains in the lineup. This marks an even more dramatic stance from the country, which, as one of the two most successful nations in Eurovision history, has long been central to the contest’s identity.
If upheld, Ireland’s position would represent one of the most significant national-level boycotts in the history of Eurovision, raising further pressure on the EBU amid growing calls for Israel’s exclusion.
Source: X
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