Spain is threatening to withdraw from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest over Israel’s participation. The move adds pressure on the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) as five countries now consider boycotting the competition due to Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
The decision follows Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza and rising political pressure across Europe.
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Contest under fire ahead
The 2026 competition is scheduled to take place in Vienna next May, drawing an estimated audience of over 100 million worldwide.
However as of mid-September, at least five countries — Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Iceland and Slovenia — have reportedly either called for Israel’s removal or threatened to boycott the event entirely if Israel remains on the roster.
Spain’s state broadcaster RTVE voted to withdraw with 10 votes in favor, 4 against, and 1 abstention, according to Euro News. Spain is also the first member of the “Big Five,” a group of top funders who automatically qualify for the finals.
Meanwhile, Austria’s JJ, who won the 2025 contest, has also called for Israel to be removed from next year’s competition.
UN report on Gaza
RTVE’s decision came the same day a United Nations inquiry accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza — a claim that Israel denies.
On Monday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also ramped up pressure according to multiple European news outlets.
“The sports organisations should consider whether it’s ethical for Israel to keep participating in international competitions. Why expel Russia after the invasion of Ukraine and not expel Israel after the invasion of Gaza?” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez asked. “Until the barbarity ends, neither Russia nor Israel should be in any international competition.”
Ireland’s national broadcaster RTÉ cited the “ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza” as justification for its own protest of Eurovision.
EBU delays decision deadline to December
The EBU, which organizes Eurovision, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter it is still consulting with member broadcasters and that no final decisions will be made until the process concludes.
A spokesperson also told the outlet Israel had been given a choice to withdraw or compete under a neutral flag were false.
According to The Associated Press, the EBU also stated it is working on how to “manage participation and geopolitical tensions” ahead of the December deadline to confirm countries’ participation.
