Middle East Eye • May 17, 2026 00:25

Eurovision final begins amid protests over Israel’s participation

Political Leaning Analysis

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Score: -0.25 • Center / Neutral

The final of the Eurovision Song Contest began on Saturday under tight security amid continuing criticism over Israel’s participation.

The contest has faced pressure for a third consecutive year because of Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip and elsewhere, with Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia boycotting the event in protest.

A demonstration against Israel’s participation was planned ahead of Saturday’s final, while pro-Palestinian groups held an outdoor concert on Friday under the slogan “No Stage for Genocide”.

Congolese-Austrian artist Patrick Bongola, one of the organisers, said: “Inviting Israel on such a beautiful stage as the Eurovision Song Contest stage is an affront to all the people who believe in humanity, who believe in love and togetherness.”

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