Official Statement from RTÉ and EBU’s Firm Response

Kevin Bakhurst, CEO of RTÉ, issued an official statement emphasizing the broadcaster’s position and intention to raise the issue with other participating broadcasters. He said:
“I am horrified by the ongoing events in the Middle East and the devastating impact on civilians in Gaza, as well as the fate of the Israeli hostages. Although the participation criterion for Eurovision is membership in the European Broadcasting Union, RTÉ has nevertheless asked the EBU to open a discussion regarding Israel’s inclusion in the contest. We act with awareness of RTÉ’s commitment as an independent, objective, and impartial news organization, understanding the need to maintain objectivity in covering the Gaza war. We are also aware of the heavy political pressure on Israel’s public broadcaster here”.

Response from the European Broadcasting Union: An Official and Forceful Clarification

In immediate response, Eurovision Contest Director Martin Green clarified that, contrary to claims made by RTÉ journalists, no official opposition to Israel’s participation has been received from any participating broadcaster. Green stated:
“No EBU member we consulted has publicly opposed the participation of the Israeli broadcaster ‘Kan’ in Eurovision – despite claims raised in another letter from RTÉ journalists”.

He further explained that Spanish broadcaster RTVE and Slovenian broadcaster RTVSLO requested a discussion, and Iceland’s RÚV informed the EBU of statements made by Iceland’s Foreign Minister regarding Kan’s participation

Eurovision Above All: Promoting Cultural Unity Amid Conflict

Martin Green emphasized that while organizers are fully aware of the concerns and differing opinions related to the Middle East situation, the contest’s mission remains unchanged: a unifying and inclusive event that fosters cultural connections through music. He said:
“The EBU is not detached from global realities, but together with our members, our role is to ensure Eurovision remains – first and foremost – a universal event that nurtures connections, diversity, and inclusion through music. We all strive to keep Eurovision a positive and inclusive event, showing the world how it can be – not necessarily how it really is”.

Further Clarification: A Competition Between Public Broadcasters – Not Between Governments

Green also clarified that the EBU is an association of public broadcasters, not governments, and any broadcaster meeting participation criteria is eligible to compete. He added:
“It is not our role to make comparisons between conflicts”.

Regarding political pressures on Israel’s public broadcaster, Green noted:
“The EBU supports our Israeli member Kan against threats of privatization or closure by the Israeli government. The union remains coordinated with other international organizations that maintain an inclusive stance toward Israeli participants in major contests at this time”.

Green’s firm response draws a clear red line against increasing political pressure. Despite open calls to boycott Israel, the EBU continues to uphold the principles of inclusion and diversity that define the world’s largest music competition. The remaining question is whether the media and political campaign will subside or if further rounds are expected soon