Netherlands Joins Eurovision Boycott Over Israel Amid Escalating Gaza Crisis

Netherlands Joins Eurovision Boycott Over Israel Amid Ongoing Gaza Crisis The Netherlands has announced its decision to join the growing list of countries boycotting next year's Eurovision song contest if Israel participates, citing ongoing human suffering in Gaza and erosion of press freedom. Avrotros, the Dutch public broadcaster, confirmed on Tuesday that it would not take part in the 2026 contest if Israel is involved. The move follows a similar statement from Irish broadcaster RTÉ, which cited "the ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza" as its reason for boycotting the event. "We cannot justify Israel's inclusion given the ongoing and severe human suffering in Gaza," Avrotros said in a statement. "Human suffering, the suppression of press freedom, and political interference are at odds with the values of public broadcasting." The Dutch broadcaster also highlighted the Israeli ban on international media from entering war-torn Gaza, as well as the numerous casualties among journalists. This decision comes after Irish musician Phil Coulter called on the UK to withdraw from Eurovision 2026 if Israel participates. The move has sparked a heated debate within the music industry and beyond, with some arguing that politics should not interfere with artistic expression. Eurovision will take place in Vienna in May 2026, following Austrian singer JJ's win this year after he edged out Israeli contestant Nadav Guedj in a nail-biting finish. The boycott has been met with mixed reactions from the public and within the music industry. Some have praised the move as a necessary stand against human rights abuses, while others argue that it is an overreach of politics into art. "This decision reflects the growing concern among many people about the Israeli government's actions in Gaza," said Dr. Sarah Zaidi, a Middle East expert at the University of Amsterdam. "The boycott is not just about Israel's participation in Eurovision but also about holding the Israeli government accountable for its human rights record." Avrotros' decision to join the boycott has sparked a wider conversation about the role of public broadcasting in promoting social justice and human rights. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether other countries will follow suit and what impact this may have on the future of Eurovision. *Reporting by Bbc.*