Eurovision Song Contest kicks off as five countries boycott

The Eurovision Song Contest gets off ​to a tense start in Vienna on Tuesday with the first semi-final featuring Israel, whose attendance prompted five ‌countries to boycott.

The contest has become mired in crisis over Israel's military offensive in Gaza since October ​7, 2023.

According to Reuters news agency, the public broadcasters of five countries, Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia - are boycotting this year's event, ​making it the smallest since 2003 with 35 entries.

That will also most likely reduce viewership ⁠from last year's estimated 166 million, more than the Super Bowl's 128 million.

The tension in the city was ​palpable ahead of the semi-final scheduled for 9 p.m. (1900 GMT).

Irish broadcaster RTE referred back to its statement in December that it would be "unconscionable" to take part.

Contest Director Martin Green told Reuters he hoped those boycotting would return.

"They are members of our family, right? ​We miss them," he said, adding: "We remain in dialogue to see if we can find pathways for them back."