The Eurovision Song Contest is a big music event for Europe. But now it has a big problem. The group that runs Eurovision, the EBU, said Israel can join the 2026 contest. After this decision, four countries said they will not take part. These countries are the Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia.
They are leaving because of the war in Gaza. They also do not trust the EBU's decision. The EBU had a meeting with many broadcasters. Some wanted a secret vote to remove Israel, but the EBU said no. The EBU made new rules about voting instead, and Israel stayed in the contest.
Spain is one of the most important countries in Eurovision because it pays a lot of money. Its exit is a big blow. Israel's president was happy with the EBU's choice. He said Eurovision is about friendship between nations. But Irish television said they cannot join because of the terrible situation in Gaza.
Now, Eurovision must plan for 2026 without these countries. The contest is losing its image of unity.