Ireland Stands Firm: RTÉ Threatens Eurovision Boycott Over Israel's Participation

RTÉ: Ireland Threatens to Withdraw from Eurovision if Israel Participates In a move that has sparked widespread debate, RTÉ, the Irish state broadcaster, announced on Thursday that it will not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is allowed to take part. The decision was made in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with RTÉ stating that Ireland's participation would be "unconscionable" given the loss of lives. According to sources, RTÉ's position is that it cannot condone Israel's participation while the conflict continues. "It is RTÉ's position that Ireland will not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, if the participation of Israel goes ahead," a spokesperson for RTÉ said in a statement. The final decision on whether to participate will be made once the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) confirms its plans. Ireland has won the contest seven times, with its most recent victory coming in 1996. Jedward, a popular Irish duo, represented Ireland at Eurovision two years in a row. Next year's contest is scheduled to take place in May in Vienna, Austria. Slovenia's national broadcaster, RTVSLO, has also announced that it will withdraw from the competition if Israel participates. Spain's Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun has expressed similar sentiments, stating that his country may not participate if Israel takes part. The decision by RTÉ and other European broadcasters highlights the growing tensions between Israel and its European partners over the conflict in Gaza. The move also raises questions about the role of cultural events like Eurovision in promoting international understanding and cooperation. "It's a complex issue," said Dr. Niamh Hourigan, a lecturer in Irish studies at University College Dublin. "On one hand, you have the cultural significance of Eurovision as a platform for artistic expression and cross-cultural exchange. On the other hand, you have the very real human cost of conflict." The EBU has yet to confirm whether Israel will participate in the 2026 contest. However, if RTÉ's decision is upheld, it would mark a significant shift in Ireland's participation in the event. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Eurovision Song Contest has become a platform for more than just music and entertainment – it has also become a reflection of the complex politics and cultural tensions that shape our world. *Reporting by Bbc.*