Dublin: Ireland has signaled a potential withdrawal from the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 if Israel is permitted to participate, citing moral objections tied to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The broadcaster RTE described participation as “unconscionable” while what it called the “appalling loss of civilian lives” continues, underscoring the gravity with which Ireland is treating the issue.
RTE confirmed that several European Broadcasting Union (EBU) members had voiced concerns during meetings in July about Israel’s eligibility to compete. The Irish broadcaster highlighted the escalation of violence in Gaza, including the bombing of civilian areas, the deaths of journalists, and the plight of hostages still held by Hamas. RTE emphasized that these developments made Israel’s participation morally unacceptable from Ireland’s perspective.
The broadcaster stressed that while Eurovision is officially apolitical, member nations have long been concerned about the optics of participation during conflicts, particularly when civilian casualties are involved. Ireland’s stance, therefore, is intended as a principled stand rather than a political maneuver.
Ireland has a deep history with Eurovision, having participated almost continuously since 1965 and winning seven times the joint highest number of victories alongside Sweden. Withdrawal from the 2026 contest would mark one of the rare occasions the nation abstains, reflecting the seriousness of the Gaza conflict in influencing cultural and media participation.
Scheduled to take place in Vienna, Eurovision 2026 now faces uncertainty regarding which countries will confirm their attendance. The EBU has yet to issue a final ruling on Israel’s participation, and Ireland has made clear that its decision will hinge entirely on this determination.
Ireland’s statement highlights the increasingly complex intersection of international media, cultural events, and global conflicts. While Eurovision prides itself on inclusivity and neutrality, the ongoing war in Gaza has put the EBU under pressure from broadcasters, civil society, and international observers to reconsider Israel’s eligibility.
RTE’s position may influence other member broadcasters who share similar concerns, potentially prompting a wider debate within the organization about ethics, representation, and the responsibilities of cultural institutions in times of conflict.
RTE explicitly cited the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where local authorities report over 64,000 civilian deaths since hostilities began following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. The attacks also resulted in the taking of 251 hostages, with ongoing military operations intensifying civilian suffering. The broadcaster referenced these figures to underline its moral objections to participating alongside a nation actively engaged in the conflict.
Beyond Eurovision, Ireland’s stance reflects broader global concerns about civilian protection, freedom of the press, and the treatment of hostages—issues that have sparked international debate and condemnation.
The European Broadcasting Union now faces a delicate balancing act: maintaining Eurovision’s commitment to inclusivity while acknowledging the humanitarian objections raised by Ireland and potentially other broadcasters. As the contest approaches, the world will be watching to see whether the EBU allows Israel’s participation and how other member nations respond to Ireland’s unprecedented warning of withdrawal.
Ireland’s position reinforces the notion that cultural events, even those traditionally seen as apolitical, cannot remain insulated from global ethical and humanitarian concerns. The coming months are likely to test the EBU’s ability to navigate both entertainment and moral responsibility.