RTÉ Threatens Eurovision Withdrawal Over Israel's Participation

Sat Sep 13 2025 21:23:23 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

RTÉ has communicated its intention to abstain from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel's participation proceeds, citing humanitarian concerns as the primary reason.

In a bold move, RTÉ announced that it will not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is allowed to participate. The Irish broadcaster highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza as the rationale behind this decision. RTÉ plans to finalize its decision after the European Broadcasting Union reaches a conclusion regarding Israel's involvement.

RTÉ has announced it will not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if the participation of Israel goes ahead. The Irish broadcaster stated that Ireland's involvement in the contest would be unconscionable given the ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza. RTÉ emphasized that a final decision will be made once the European Broadcasting Union determines the situation regarding Israel's participation.

This decision highlights the intersection of culture and current events, with RTÉ choosing to take a stand based on humanitarian issues. As the Eurovision Song Contest gains significant international attention, this could have broader implications for the event's future.

This breaking news story is being updated, and more details will be published shortly.