BBC backs Israel’s Eurovision participation amid European withdrawals
Ireland, Spain, Netherlands and Slovenia boycott contest over Gaza war, while BBC and Austria support Israel’s 2026 involvement
LONDON (MNTV) – The BBC has endorsed the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) decision to allow Israel to participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, despite a growing boycott by several European broadcasters.
National broadcasters from Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia have announced their withdrawal, citing Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in over 70,000 deaths, widespread destruction, and war crimes.
A BBC spokesperson stated, “We support the collective decision made by members of the EBU. This is about enforcing the rules of the EBU and being inclusive.” Israel’s participation in the contest, set to take place in Vienna in May 2026, was confirmed at the EBU’s general assembly in Geneva.
Opposition to the decision has intensified, with critics pointing to what they see as double standards. Russia was banned from Eurovision in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine, yet Israel faces no such restrictions.
Ireland’s public broadcaster RTE announced it would neither participate nor broadcast the contest, describing Ireland’s involvement as “unconscionable given the humanitarian crisis in Gaza” and condemning attacks on journalists.
Over 220 Palestinian journalists have reportedly been killed since the start of the genocide in Gaza.
Slovenian broadcaster RTV cited the deaths of 20,000 children in Gaza in its decision to withdraw, with chairperson Natalija Gorscak highlighting the ongoing media restrictions and contrasting Israel’s inclusion with Russia’s prior exclusion.
Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS also pulled out, criticizing the EBU for decisions that conflict with essential public values, including humanity and press freedom.
The EBU did not vote directly on Israel’s participation. Member broadcasters instead approved new voting rules to prevent political or governmental influence from affecting contest outcomes.
Austria, as host nation following singer JJ’s win in 2025, and Germany reportedly support Israel’s inclusion in the competition.
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