The boycott raises the prospect of less sponsorship income and viewers for the extravaganza that draws millions of viewers worldwide.

In all, 20 living hostages and the remains of 27 others have been returned to Israel since a U.S.-brokered ceasefire began in early October.

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem on Friday criticised the Lebanese government's decision to send a civilian delegate to the ceasefire committee, calling it a "free concession" to Israel and a clear violation of previous government positions.

Israel says that partial remains returned from Gaza earlier this week do not match either of the hostages taken during Hamas’ 2023 attack who remain in Gaza.

Austria, the host of next year's contest, supported Israel's continued participation, while Germany had threatened to withdraw if Israel was excluded.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams issued executive orders Thursday designed to protect Israel and appeal to the Jewish community.

Germany has inaugurated the first elements of the sophisticated Arrow 3 missile defense system, which it is buying from Israel as it moves to strengthen its air defenses following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Negotiations between Lebanon and Israel took a new turn this week, as the long-time enemies agreed to engage in direct, U.S.-backed talks.