“RTE feels that Ireland’s participation would be unconscionable given the ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza.”
Ireland will not take part in next year’s Eurovision Song Contest if Israel participates, the Irish state broadcaster RTE says.
“It is RTE’s position that Ireland will not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if the participation of Israel goes ahead,” the broadcaster said in a statement.
“RTE feels that Ireland’s participation would be unconscionable given the ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza.
“RTE is also deeply concerned by the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza, the denial of access to international journalists to the territory, and the plight of the remaining hostages.”
Slovenia’s national broadcaster, RTVSLO, has also said it will withdraw from the competition if Israel participates.
Martin Green CBE, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, said the EBU “understand the concerns and deeply held views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East”.
He added: “We are still consulting with all EBU Members to gather views on how we manage participation and geopolitical tensions around the Eurovision Song Contest.
“Broadcasters have until mid-December to confirm if they wish to take part in next year’s event in Vienna. It is up to each member to decide if they want to take part in the contest and we would respect any decision broadcasters make.”
Earlier this year, more than 70 former Eurovision contestants signed a letter calling on the organisers to ban Israel from the 2025 competition.
SBS has indicated Australia will compete next year in Vienna but is yet to formally weigh in on the growing tensions.