Eurovision 2026 is here - but will the Israel boycott spoil the show?

Fans are grappling with how to react to the withdrawal of Spain, Ireland and others over Israel's participation.

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It's the show's 70th anniversary, but the celebrations have been overshadowed by a ferocious row over Israel's participation.

As the delegations gather in Austria, five competition regulars will be absent, with Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain all boycotting the event.

Israel's presence has sparked controversy since its government began a massive military offensive in Gaza in October 2023.

The incursion came in response to a Hamas-led attack on Israel, that killed about 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage, Israeli authorities say. Israel's offensive has killed 72,628 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-led health authority.