Eurovision Song Contest final takes the stage amid Gaza boycott

The Eurovision Song Contest reached its final in Vienna under an unusually heavy political cloud, as five countries stayed out of the competition in protest at Israel’s participation. Broadcasters from Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia withdrew, turning what is normally a celebration of pop spectacle into one of the most politically charged editions in years. Organisers said they still hope the contest can preserve its tradition of cultural exchange despite the controversy and a reduced lineup. Authorities in Austria prepared for demonstrations and possible disruptions around the venue, with tensions already visible during earlier rounds. A brief protest inside the arena and audible hostility toward Israel’s entrant underscored the increasingly difficult balance between entertainment and international politics. With only 35 entries overall, the contest is at its smallest in more than two decades, and broadcasters now face a sharper debate over whether large cultural events can realistically remain insulated from global conflict.