IRISH broadcaster RTÉ has confirmed it will not take part in next Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is among the particiapnts.
In a statement issued this afternoon, the broadcater said it was their "position" that "Ireland will not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if the participation of Israel goes ahead".
"RTÉ feels that Ireland’s participation would be unconscionable given the ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza," they explained.
Ireland's 2025 Eurovision entry Emmy performing her song Laika Party at this year's competition (Pic: Eurovision)"RTÉ is also deeply concerned by the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza, and the denial of access to international journalists to the territory, and the plight of the remaining hostages.”
The broadcaster added that the the final decision regarding Ireland’s participation will be made once the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) decision on Israel taking part in the contest is made.
“At the General Assembly of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in July, a number of EBU members raised concerns about the participation of Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest," RTÉ confirmed.
"RTÉ wishes to thank the EBU for the extensive consultation process that was initiated on foot of that meeting, and the extension of the option to withdraw from participation without penalty to December," they added.
Eurovision's 70th anniversary edition is due to take place in Vienna, Austria in May 2026, after Austrian entry JJ won the 2025 competition with his song Wasted Love.
See More: Eurovision, Ireland, Israel, RTE
