Eurovision: ‘Israel doesn’t care’ about Irish exit. 'You have not sent a decent song in 25 years'

Former Israeli delegate says Ireland could 'return stronger' after RTÉ decides to pull out of next year's Eurovision in light of the humanitarian crisis in Palestine

Supporters at a watch party in Bambie Thug's hometown, Macroom, Co Cork, during the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest in Malmo. Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain, and Slovenia have withdrawn from the 2026 contest. Picture: Noel Sweeney/PA

“You have not sent a decent song in 25 years. Take a year off and think about it and return stronger and hopefully be in the top five for a change. We miss the good Irish songs.”

That is how Alon Amir, former member of the Israeli Eurovision delegation, reacted to Ireland’s withdrawal from next year’s contest in Austria.