RTÉ has announced that it will not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest "if the participation of Israel goes ahead".
In a statement, the broadcaster said that "it is RTÉ's position that Ireland will not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, if the participation of Israel goes ahead, and the final decision regarding Ireland’s participation will be made once the EBU’s decision is made".
RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst said that "RTÉ feels that Ireland’s participation would be unconscionable given the ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza. RTÉ is also deeply concerned by the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza, the denial of access to international journalists to the territory, and the plight of the remaining hostages".
Speaking to reporters, Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers said he supports and respects RTÉ's decision.
While Mr Chambers said he was not aware of any contact between the broadcaster and the Government about the move, the minister said: "I think we’ve all been shocked over the summer to see the innocent killing of journalists who are providing objective information to the world about the genocide in Gaza and Israel’s activities and I absolutely respect RTE’s decision."
Eurovision director Martin Green said: "We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
"We are still consulting with all EBU members to gather views on how we manage participation and geopolitical tensions around the Eurovision Song Contest.
"Broadcasters have until mid-December to confirm if they wish to take part in next year’s event in Vienna.
"It is up to each member to decide if they want to take part in the contest and we would respect any decision broadcasters make."
The National Union of Journalists Dublin Broadcasting Branch said it welcomed the announcement. In a statement, they said its members working in RTÉ supported the decision not to take part if Israel is included.