Spain’s Bold Move: Withdrawing from Eurovision if Israel remains in the contest

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In a historic move, RTVE voted to withdraw Spain from Eurovision 2025 if Israel participates. This controversial decision reflects a growing trend. RTVE seeks debate on Israel's role at the EBU's next assembly, while Benidorm Fest will proceed as planned. This impacts Eurovision's future and European discussions.

RTVE’s Controversial Decision

In a significant development on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, the RTVE board of directors made a bold move regarding the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest. The board unanimously agreed that Spain will withdraw from Eurovision if Israel remains a participant. This decision was spurred by a proposal from RTVE president José Pablo López and achieved an absolute majority, with 10 votes in favor and just 4 against.

Joining the Growing List of Withdrawals

Spain is not alone in its stance; it becomes the first member of the «Big Five» nations—comprised of the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, and Spain—to take this definitive step. Other countries have echoed similar sentiments and declared their intent to withdraw from Eurovision if Israel is not excluded. Countries like Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands have taken similar stands, indicating a significant shift within the contest’s traditional voting dynamics.

The Call for Serious Debate

In July during the 94th EBU general assembly, RTVE called for an extensive and serious debate related to Israel’s presence in Eurovision 2024. The corporation voiced the importance of finding a resolution prior to the next general assembly scheduled for December. Despite these developments regarding Eurovision, RTVE assured that the upcoming Benidorm Fest, a festival that celebrates its fifth edition next year, will proceed unaffected by this decision, maintaining its distinct identity.

EBU should not have any dealings with Israel and should exclude them for at least five years following the end of the genocide.

This article are written in corporation with MySoCalledGaylife.eu and lgbtqmusicchart.eu