In Ireland, they announced plans to abandon the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 with the participation of Israel.

Ireland will refuse to participate in the Eurovision 2026 music contest if Israel is allowed to participate in it. This was reported on September 11 by The Times of Israel newspaper, citing a statement from the Irish broadcaster RTE.

"RTE believes that Ireland's involvement would be unconscionable, given the ongoing and horrific loss of life in Gaza. RTE is also deeply concerned about the targeted killings of journalists in Gaza and the denial of access to the territory for international journalists, as well as the plight of the remaining hostages," the broadcaster said in a statement.

It is noted that Israel participates in the competition as a member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which finances and organizes the event. The final decision on Ireland's participation in the 2026 contest, which will be held in Vienna, will be made after the union makes its own decision on Israel.

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In May, the head of the Spanish government, Pedro Sanchez, said that Israel's participation in the European Eurovision Song Contest indicates the double standards of the organizers. The politician recalled that Russia was suspended from participating in the competition after the start of the special operation. The Spanish Prime Minister called for avoiding double standards "even in culture."

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