Ireland, a historic Eurovision powerhouse with seven wins, has joined Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain in boycotting the 2026 contest. The boycott stems from the European Broadcasting Union's decision to allow Israel to participate amid its ongoing war in Gaza.
Irish broadcaster RTÉ will not air the finals from Austria, instead broadcasting a Father Ted Eurovision-themed episode. RTÉ called participation 'unconscionable' given the death toll-72,628 Palestinians, per Gaza health authorities-and the targeting of journalists.
Prime Minister Micheál Martin framed the boycott as solidarity with journalists killed in Gaza. Israeli broadcaster Kan labeled the move a 'cultural boycott.' The boycott has divided Irish opinion: the Jewish community feels isolated and accused RTÉ of 'moral bankruptcy,' while many Dublin youth support the stance.
Ireland's relationship with Israel has soured further, with Israel closing its Dublin embassy late 2024 and accusing Ireland of antisemitism.