BRUSSELS, February 15, 2026 (WAFA) — The European Broadcasting Union announced the cancellation of the European tour linked to the Eurovision Song Contest following continued controversy and objections over Israel’s participation in the 2026 edition.

In an official statement, the union said the decision came amid escalating boycotts and pressure related to Israel’s participation against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Gaza. After five countries announced their withdrawal from the contest, organizers decided not to proceed with the European tour, which had been scheduled to take place after the competition in May.

The statement quoted contest director Martin Green as saying the cancellation was not an easy decision. He said that despite significant efforts by the team, producers, and organizers, they faced unexpected challenges they could not overcome.

Green added that attention will now focus on organizing the 70th edition of the contest, set to be held in May in Vienna.

The European Broadcasting Union had approved Israel’s participation in the 2026 edition during its 95th general assembly held in December 2025 in Geneva. Following that decision, public broadcasters in Spain, Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland, and Slovenia announced their withdrawal from the contest in protest.

M.N