Israel will be allowed to participate in the international song competition Eurovision in 2026, over the objections of several countries.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced on Thursday, December 4th, that all members who “wish to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 and agree to comply with the new rules” are eligible to take part next year.

In response, Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia have all withdrawn from the competition, with Iceland expected to follow suit.

Spain’s RTVE said in a press release that its board of directors “agreed last September that Spain would withdraw from Eurovision if Israel participated.” The broadcaster noted that it had requested a vote on Israel’s suspension, but it was not approved.

Ireland’s RTÉ stated that Israel’

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