According to the organisers’ announcement, “the EBU, at its regular general assembly on 4.12.25, did not put the issue of Israel’s participation to a vote, despite the appeals of several countries. It invoked the ‘truce’, turning a blind eye to the ongoing genocide and whitewashing Israel’s crimes.”

The announcement cited the responses of several broadcasters that have withdrawn or refused to participate:

Netherlands – AVROTROS: “Under the current circumstances, participation cannot be reconciled with the public values that are fundamental to our organisation.”

Slovenia – RTVSLO: Participation “would conflict with the values of peace, equality and respect” and the withdrawal is being made “on behalf of the 20,000 children who died in Gaza.”

Ireland – RTÉ: “Ireland’s participation remains morally unthinkable.”

Spain – RTVE: Will not broadcast the contest or the semi-finals, citing “inadequate process” and “political pressure”.

In Greece, the call issued by BDS Greece and the Cultural Network for Palestine has already gained significant traction. The Panhellenic Music Association and POSPERT have issued statements supporting a boycott of Israel.

The organisers set out the following demands:

From the EBU: to exclude Israel until it complies with International Law, stops genocide, occupation and apartheid, and respects the right of return of Palestinian refugees.

From ERT: to pressure the EBU and, if Israel is not excluded, for Greece to withdraw from the contest following the example of four European countries.

From the artistic community: to take a stand against what the organisers describe as the cultural cleansing of genocide.

From the public: to boycott Eurovision if Israel remains in the competition.

The announcement concluded with the slogans:

“Immediate severance of all cultural ties with terrorist, genocidal Israel!

Silence is complicity.

Free Palestine.”

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