Icelandic broadcaster RUV has joined a growing list of nations boycotting the Eurovision Song Contest, citing strong public outcry over Israel's involvement in the contest. This move marks the fifth country to withdraw from the event, following Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia.
Criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza had been a key factor in these countries' decisions. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) had announced plans to introduce new measures aimed at addressing irregularities in voting, but organisers decided not to put these changes to a vote, paving the way for Israel to participate.
Despite claims that Israel is using the contest as a platform for political purposes, it will now compete alongside other countries next year. This move has sparked controversy, particularly among fans who feel that the EBU should prioritize artistic merit over politics.
RUV's decision comes after a board meeting in which the broadcaster stated its refusal to participate in the 2026 edition, citing concerns about the EBU's handling of the Israel debacle. The Icelandic broadcaster had also requested that Israel's state broadcaster be removed from the contest.
With this latest withdrawal, some 36 countries are now expected to take part in next year's event, which will be held in Vienna, Austria. Eurovision director Martin Green has indicated that a record number of participants – around 35 countries – is expected for the 2026 edition.
Criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza had been a key factor in these countries' decisions. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) had announced plans to introduce new measures aimed at addressing irregularities in voting, but organisers decided not to put these changes to a vote, paving the way for Israel to participate.
Despite claims that Israel is using the contest as a platform for political purposes, it will now compete alongside other countries next year. This move has sparked controversy, particularly among fans who feel that the EBU should prioritize artistic merit over politics.
RUV's decision comes after a board meeting in which the broadcaster stated its refusal to participate in the 2026 edition, citing concerns about the EBU's handling of the Israel debacle. The Icelandic broadcaster had also requested that Israel's state broadcaster be removed from the contest.
With this latest withdrawal, some 36 countries are now expected to take part in next year's event, which will be held in Vienna, Austria. Eurovision director Martin Green has indicated that a record number of participants – around 35 countries – is expected for the 2026 edition.
anyway iceland sounds like they're doing whats right by staying out of it but sad that its causing drama 
. I mean, if fans are saying the EBU should prioritize artistic merit over politics, who are we to judge? Maybe Israel just wants to share their culture and music with the world through Eurovision 
. And honestly, can you blame Iceland for not wanting to participate when they feel like the EBU isn't doing enough to address the issue? It's not like they're being petty or anything 
. I'm actually kinda stoked that more countries are taking a stand and refusing to be part of something they don't agree with 
.
i'm so down for an artistically focused contest but it feels like politics are getting in the way 
ukraine and other european countries have been super vocal about israel's actions in gaza, and now we're seeing more and more countries back them up 
36 countries withdrawing is crazy! i feel bad for fans who love eurovision too much to care about politics though 
maybe the eu will finally listen to their concerns tho 
. Its not just about Israel either, its about other countries feeling uncomfortable or disrespected 