• The Netherlands, Spain, Slovenia, Iceland, and Ireland are boycotting Eurovision 2026 over Israel’s policies in Gaza and allegations of vote manipulation.
  • Dutch broadcaster NPO decided not to participate; Avrotros director Taco Zimmermann said the event no longer aligns with their values.
  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized the boycott, calling it scandalous and stating that Israel belongs in the competition.
  • The boycott debate reflects EU divisions on Israel policy, including sanctions on settlers and proposals to suspend the association agreement.
  • Belgium is pushing for an import ban on products from Israeli settlements, while the Netherlands and Italy have suspended military cooperation with Israel.

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