The board of the Icelandic National Broadcasting Corporation wants Israel to be banned from participating in next year’s Eurovision Song Contest. This was confirmed by Stefán Jón Hafstein, chairman of the board of RÚV.
“A majority today agreed to recommend to the board of the European Broadcasting Union, EBU, to expel Israel from the competition next spring 2026.”
He says the resolution was approved by five votes out of nine at the RÚV board meeting this afternoon.
“What happens next is that the EBU will meet for a general meeting on December 4-5. I understand that on December 4, this issue regarding Israel’s participation and the rules regarding the competition will be discussed and then our agreement will have been presented for that meeting. It will be completely clear then.”
There is uncertainty about the participation of several countries in next year’s competition. Spain, Ireland and Slovenia have all expressed their opposition to Israel’s participation due to its military operation in the Gaza Strip. When asked, he said he did not know how many countries planned to take the same position.
“I don’t know where the country is now. This discussion has been discussed quite a bit, so it will just have to come to light at this meeting, as everyone has been waiting for it.”
Will RÚV participate if Israel is not barred from participating?
“It will be discussed at a special board meeting after the EBU meeting. No position was taken on it at today’s meeting.”
Source: RÚV
