Four European countries refuse to participate in Eurovision due to Israel's involvement

Ongoing international tensions have reignited debates over whether artists and athletes should face consequences for the actions of their governments. Israel received official approval on Thursday to take part in the Eurovision Song Contest, leading the Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia to announce their withdrawal from next years event in protest of Israels military operations in Gaza.

Culture brings people together, but it has limits, stated a representative from Dutch broadcasting.

In a related development, Russia banned from Eurovision since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine successfully appealed, along with Belarus, allowing its athletes to compete at the upcoming Winter Olympics under a neutral flag, ending nearly four years of restrictions. Despite this, Russia remains barred from participating in next years FIFA Mens World Cup.

Author: Aiden Foster