Iceland becomes 5th country to boycott Eurovision
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They were among a number of countries who had called for Israel to be excluded over the humanitarian toll of the war in Gaza.
Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and the Netherlands announced their withdrawals Thursday from next year’s Eurovision Song Contest after organizers decided that Israel will be allowed to compete.
The Times of Israel on MSN
Israel cleared for Eurovision 2026 in EBU vote; Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia quit
Contest organizers say 'large majority' backed measure; Belgium, Iceland yet to decide on participation; Herzog: Israel 'deserves to be represented on every stage' The post Israel cleared for Eurovision 2026 in EBU vote;
After meeting in Geneva on Thursday, EBU decided not to hold vote on Israel's participation, effectively allowing Tel Aviv to take part - Anadolu Ajansı
Despite being outside Europe, Israel is eligible to compete because its broadcaster KAN is a member of the EBU. Israel has taken part since 1973 and has won four times
Slovenia will not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest after European Broadcasting Union members on Thursday rejected a call for a vote on Israel's participation, national broadcaster RTV Slovenia said.
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