Israel allowed to take part in Eurovision 2026 - as at least two countries withdraw
Israel will be allowed to compete in next year's Eurovision Song Contest - with two broadcasters saying they will now boycott the event.
news.sky.comI don’t have live access to my tools in this turn, but here’s the latest I can share based on recent reporting up to now.
Core answer
- Israel was cleared to participate in Eurovision 2026, despite protests and some withdrawals from other countries in response to Gaza-related coverage and debates over voting and governance within the contest [BBC: Israel to remain in Eurovision Song Contest].[9]
Context and key developments
- The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) introduced new safeguards aimed at limiting government and third-party influence on the contest’s voting and promotion, while deciding Israel’s eligibility for 2026 [CNN: Eurovision organizers to decide on Israel's participation].[6]
- Following the decision to allow Israel to compete, several countries announced withdrawals in protest, including Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia, highlighting the controversy surrounding the decision [SBS: Israel to perform at Eurovision 2026 as Spain, Netherlands, Ireland and Slovenia withdraw].[4]
What this means for Eurovision 2026
- Israel is expected to participate in the contest as planned, with its entry competing alongside other invited countries, while the withdrawals reduce the field and amplify ongoing political debates around the event [ITV: Several countries pull out of Eurovision 2026 as Israel is confirmed to participate].[2]
- The situation has drawn broad media attention across outlets in Europe and beyond, reflecting tensions between cultural events and geopolitical issues in the region [CNN: Eurovision organizers to decide on Israel's participation].[6]
If you’d like, I can search for more up-to-the-minute coverage or pull in direct quotes from specific outlets, and I can also summarize the current participant list and running order once those details are published.