Ireland will not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is allowed to compete, Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTE), the country's national public service broadcaster, has confirmed.
In a statement, RTE said taking part would be “unconscionable” due to Israel’s war on Gaza and the “appalling loss of lives”.
Ireland has been one of the strongest critics of Israel’s military actions and has joined South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide.
The ICJ issued an interim order in January 2024 requiring Israel to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza. Israel has since closed its embassy in Dublin in response to Ireland’s stance.
Eurovision is organised by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which has said it understands the “concerns and deeply held views” surrounding the conflict. Eurovision director Martin Green stated the EBU is “still consulting with all members” and noted broadcasters have until mid-December to confirm participation in the 2026 contest, scheduled for Vienna.
Recent editions of Eurovision have been overshadowed by protests against Israel’s involvement. More than 64,000 people have been killed in Gaza, and rights groups have condemned the targeting of journalists, with over 270 reported deaths.
RTE cited these killings and the denial of media access as further reasons for its position.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has previously argued that Israel should be excluded from Eurovision, pointing to Russia’s suspension following its invasion of Ukraine.
Ireland, which has taken part since 1965 and holds seven victories, said a final decision will depend on the EBU’s ruling on Israel’s entry.
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