Eurovision: the Netherlands lays down an ultimatum

Dutch broadcaster joins other nations in protest

As foreseen, the storm that was brewing last year has flared up again at the Eurovision. The Netherlands is the latest nation to threaten to bow out of Eurovision 2026 should Israel remain in the line-up.

For the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS the “ongoing and severe human suffering in Gaza” is a dealbreaker. They declared that under current circumstances, Israel’s participation is simply unjustifiable, especially as the contest is being wielded as “a political instrument” by the Israeli government. But they also made it clear: if Israel’s out, they’re back in.

Ireland, Spain and Iceland weigh in

Meanwhile, Ireland’s RTÉ is singing a similar tune. Not only will Ireland skip the competition if Israel takes the stage in Vienna next May, but RTÉ also plans to blackout the semi-finals and the grand finale from Irish screens. They’ve labelled participation “unconscionable” given the tragic loss of life in Gaza. Still, RTÉ insists that coverage of sporting fixtures involving Israel will carry on as usual.

Spain and Iceland are also considering boycotting the event if Israel is allowed to remain, with the UK reportedly reviewing its position.

In related news, 50 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza yesterday, and mass arrests of several hundred random people were made in the West Bank city of Tulkarem.

(Michael Leahy. Source: Irish Independent et al.  Photo: Sarah Louise Bennett/EBU)