In brief
Iceland has become the fifth country to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, citing concerns over Israel's participation. This decision, made by Iceland's national broadcaster RÚV, follows similar moves by Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands. The boycott arises from escalating tensions and differing responses to Israel's involvement in the event, particularly in light of the recent conflict in Gaza. RÚV's director-general emphasized the lack of peace associated with the contest, prompting Iceland to reassess its participation in the upcoming 70th anniversary celebration of Eurovision.
Iceland has joined Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and the Netherlands in saying it will boycott the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest.
All five countries have withdrawn after Israel's participation in the competition was officially confirmed last week.
Stefan Eiriksson, director-general of Icelandic national broadcaster RÚV, said: There is no peace or joy connected to this contest as things stand now. On that basis, first and foremost, we are stepping back while the situation is as it is.
RÚV stated that Israel's participation had created disunity among both members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and the general public.
The broadcaster's board agreed to this decision at a meeting on Wednesday, hours before the deadline for confirming participation in what should be a celebratory 70th anniversary edition of Eurovision next May.
Iceland was reportedly the last country to announce its decision. Eurovision director Martin Green commented, We respect the decision of all broadcasters who have chosen not to participate in next year's Eurovision Song Contest and hope to welcome them back soon..
Israel's involvement at Eurovision has increasingly stirred tensions, particularly due to the ongoing war in Gaza and allegations of attempts to influence voting. Despite a new set of measures approved by the EBU to safeguard the voting integrity, RÚV had previously voiced concerns about the broad disapproval from various Icelandic stakeholders regarding participation in the contest.
The Icelandic broadcaster had submitted a recommendation for Israel to be banned from participating and was among the countries requesting a vote on Israel’s participation, which was denied. RÚV remains skeptical about whether the newly agreed-upon adjustments sufficiently resolve their concerns.
While Iceland withdraws, Poland confirmed its intent to participate, aiming to keep Eurovision a space for music amidst the surrounding tensions.
