Ireland will not participate in 2027 Eurovision, broadcaster announces, citing situation in Gaza

Ireland's public broadcaster, RTÉ, announced on Thursday that the country will not participate in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest. RTÉ cited the "appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there" as the reason for its decision, stating that Ireland's participation "cannot be justified." The broadcaster also expressed deep concern over the "continued denial of independent access to international journalists to the territory." Martin Green, the contest's director, stated that the European Broadcasting Union regretted RTÉ's choice but "fully respects their decision.”