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The Iberian country has declared it will withdraw in the upcoming international music competition if the Israeli delegation is permitted to compete.

Committee Decision Leads to Public Position

Representatives of the national broadcaster decided by a clear margin in favor of a non-participation should Israel send an act in the next year’s event.

As a result, Spain the pioneering member of the so-called “major five” – which includes France, the Germans, Italy, and the United Kingdom – to make this move in reaction to the Israeli military actions in Gaza.

UN Inquiry and International Situation

This move came on the very day a United Nations panel concluded that Israel was perpetrating genocide in the Palestinian territory.

Several nations – such as Slovenian, Ireland, and the Dutch – had already announced parallel positions regarding the contest.

RTVE’s Statement and Board Ballot

Earlier this year, we requested the European Broadcasting Union for a thorough discussion concerning Israel’s involvement,” said RTVE in a official communication. “Multiple broadcasters endorsed our request.”

The proposal to pull out obtained support from 10 members, four rejections, and a single abstained vote.

RTVE emphasized that the stance does not impact the Benidorm Fest, which is considered a self-sufficient competition with its distinct profile.

Eurovision Background and Historical Precedents

The next Eurovision is set to be held in Vienna in spring. The show remains one of the globe’s largest TV spectacles, attracting in excess of 160 million watchers.

Russia was banned from competing in the wake of its military incursion of Ukraine in 2022, while the Israeli entry has been allowed to enter amid mounting worldwide concern.

EBU Process and Timeline Adjustments

The union launched a review process in the summer with the 37 participating networks from the last edition.

Ordinarily, broadcasters must declare participation by October, but for the 2026 contest the deadline was pushed back until the end of the year, allowing delayed determinations to opt out.

Nevertheless, certain countries that begin their national selection shows in the autumn are facing expectations to determine earlier.

Global Reactions

Slovenian broadcaster RTV was the earliest to reveal its withdrawal, then came RTÉ and the Netherlands.

Avrotros mentioned concerns over journalistic safety and the significant toll of journalist casualties in the conflict zone.

Iceland’s RÚV noted it was actively reviewing its stance and left open the possibility to not take part.

Several Scandinavian broadcasters have begun their selection shows but are also leaving open the chance of a potential boycott.

Mixed Views and EBU Statement

Martin Green commented: “Recognize the strong views around the conflict. Our team is discussing with all broadcasters to gather viewpoints on how to address international conflicts… Ultimately, up to individual member to choose whether they want to participate.”

In contrast, Israel’s media outlet Kan expressed its intention to participate in the upcoming contest.