"We would like to express our serious doubts about the participation of Israeli broadcaster KAN in Eurovision 2026,"
"The situation in Gaza, despite the ceasefire and the approval of the peace process, and Israel's use of the contest for political purposes, make it increasingly difficult to maintain Eurovision as a neutral cultural event."
"Israel deserves to be represented on every stage around the world, a cause to which I am fully and actively committed,"
"I am pleased that Israel will once again participate in the Eurovision Song Contest, and I hope that the competition will remain one that champions culture, music, friendship between nations, and cross-border cultural understanding."
Four countries — Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia — announced a boycott of Eurovision 2026 following the European Broadcasting Union General Assembly's refusal to allow a vote on Israel's participation. Spanish broadcaster RTVE cited serious doubts about Israeli broadcaster KAN's role, referencing the situation in Gaza, concerns that Israel is using the contest for political purposes, and the challenge of preserving Eurovision's neutrality. Spain's withdrawal is notable because Spain is part of the Big Five. Israel's president affirmed Israel's right to representation and support for cultural exchange, while KAN described any removal attempt as a cultural boycott.
Read at Vulture
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