Eurovision organisers say Israel exclusion would have been ‘political decision’

'It’s about uniting onstage all of these young talents, these participants, and they do great. It’s about diversity and inclusion'

Swedish singer Loreen won Eurovision last year (Peter Byrne/PA)

Organisers of the Eurovision Song Contest have said excluding the Israeli broadcaster Kan from the competition would have been a “political decision”.

There have been calls for fans and participants to boycott the music competition taking place in Malmo, Sweden, next week after it was confirmed Israel would be competing amid the ongoing conflict in the Gaza strip.