Eurovision 2026 Boycotts Escalate as Broadcasters Air Palestinian Films Over Israel's Role
Where things stand
Updated May 4, 10:01 AMThe 70th Eurovision Song Contest is proceeding in Vienna, Austria, with 35 countries confirmed as participants by multiple sources. The semi-final rounds are scheduled for 8pm UK time on Tuesday 12 May and Thursday 14 May. The status of broadcasters reportedly planning to air the Palestinian film series ‘Voices of Palestine’ instead of Eurovision coverage remains unverified. Claims that Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain have withdrawn over Israel’s participation have not been corroborated by independent sources.
Open questions
- Have Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain officially withdrawn from Eurovision 2026?Open since April 23, 2026
- Which broadcasters are planning to air 'Voices of Palestine' and when?Open since April 23, 2026
- What is the European Broadcasting Union’s response to the reported boycott threats?
- What security measures are confirmed to be in place for the Vienna event?Open since May 4, 2026
- Is Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2026 confirmed and what reactions have been reported?
- What is the content and intended broadcast schedule of 'Voices of Palestine'?Open since April 23, 2026
Key actors
What's corroborated
A total of 35 countries are currently taking part this year.
2 sourcesacross 2 articlesThe semi-finals take place at 8pm UK time on Tuesday 12 and Thursday 14 May.
2 sourcesacross 2 articlesThe 70th Eurovision Song Contest is taking place in Vienna.
2 sourcesacross 2 articlesBomb-sniffing dogs are being used to guarantee security at Eurovision in Vienna.
1 sourceacross 1 articleSweden's entry competes in the first semifinal.
1 sourceacross 1 article