Lisbon: 17 Portuguese musicians have declared their intention to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, joining a growing list of countries expressing discontent over Israel's participation. This decision follows the withdrawal of Iceland, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia from the contest. The artists, who were part of Portugal's national selection show Festival da Cancao, announced they would refuse to represent Portugal even if chosen.

According to Anadolu Agency, the musicians issued a statement condemning Israel's involvement in the contest. They emphasized their commitment to act against what they perceive as complicity in human rights violations. The statement highlighted a perceived inconsistency in Eurovision's policies, noting that Russia faced a ban in 2022 for political reasons, yet similar actions were not taken against Israel. The artists referenced findings from the United Nations describing actions in Gaza as acts of genocide.

In response to the boycott, Portugal's public broadcaster RTP asserted its commitment to continue organizing the Festival da Can§o and confirmed its participation in Eurovision 2026. Despite the artists' decision, RTP maintained its stance on being part of the international event.

Meanwhile, Salvador Sobral, Portugal's only Eurovision winner, publicly criticized RTP's position. In a social media video, he accused the broadcaster of 'political cowardice,' further fueling public debate. This controversy has sparked widespread public outrage in Portugal, leading to the creation of a petition demanding the country's withdrawal from Eurovision.

The petition, which has garnered over 22,000 signatures, criticizes RTP's support for Israel's participation, arguing it places Portugal on the wrong side of history. It references the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the 2025 vote rigging scandals in Basel as reasons for concern over Eurovision's political entanglements.