LONDON, December 4, 2025 (WAFA) – The national broadcasters of Ireland, Spain and the Netherlands announced that they will boycott the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest after the European Broadcasting Union decided to allow Israel to participate in the upcoming competition.

These countries were among several parties that had called for Israel’s exclusion, citing the heavy human toll in Gaza and accusations of unfair voting practices.

According to multiple British newspapers, the EBU’s semi-annual General Assembly voted on a package of reforms aimed at reducing government influence on voting results, but no separate vote was held on Israel’s participation.

Despite the reforms, the three broadcasters confirmed their withdrawal, stating that the decision does not reflect the ethical values the contest should uphold.

M.N