At least four countries have pulled out of the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest due to Israel's participation, sparking political discord and protests. This decision comes after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) allowed Israel to compete, despite concerns over its conduct in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The EBU's general assembly met to address these concerns, voting to implement tougher voting rules but not excluding any broadcaster. The war in Gaza has already caused protests outside venues and forced organizers to restrict political displays. Eurovision expert Dean Vuletic predicts a significant political boycott, with countries like Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia publicly announcing their non-participation. The controversy threatens to overshadow the contest's 70th anniversary in Vienna, with some broadcasters citing the killing of journalists and Israel's denial of access to Gaza as reasons for their withdrawal. Israeli President Isaac Herzog supports the participation, but some broadcasters argue it's incompatible with their responsibility as public entities. The contest, usually a celebration of music, has been marred by political tensions, with Russia expelled in 2022 for its invasion of Ukraine. The 2026 edition promises to be one of the most politicized, with the return of Bulgaria, Moldova, and Romania, but the Israel controversy casts a shadow over the event.
