Netherlands joins Eurovision boycott threat over 'Israel'

The Netherlands has announced it will not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna if 'Israel' is allowed to compete, citing the “ongoing and severe human suffering in Gaza.”

Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS said on Friday that joining the event under current circumstances would be unacceptable, also expressing concern about press freedom and the high number of journalists killed in Gaza.

Read more: Ireland to boycott Eurovision if ‘Israel’ competes

The move follows similar statements from Ireland’s RTE, which called participation “unconscionable,” while Iceland said it may also withdraw. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has urged 'Israel’s' exclusion.

The European Broadcasting Union, which runs Eurovision, said members have until mid-December to decide on participation, acknowledging the “deeply held concerns” surrounding the aggression.

Eurovision’s 2026 finale is set for May 16 in Vienna.

Read more: Countries threaten Eurovision boycott over 'Israel’s' participation