‘Iconic performers’ will visit 10 European cities, as event reels from boycott over Israel’s 2026 participation

The Eurovision song contest will go on its first ever tour to celebrate its 70th anniversary, its organiser has said, as it reels from a boycott due to Israel’s participation.

Five countries have pulled out of the contest over Israel’s war in Gaza, leaving 35 to participate in the world’s biggest live televised music event – the fewest since entry was expanded in 2004.

Crane in use on high-speed rail project hits passing train, causing it to derail

At least 28 people in Thailand have been killed and scores injured after a crane collapsed on to a passenger train and derailed it, officials said.

Footage from the scene verified by Agence France-Presse showed the crane’s broken structure resting on giant concrete pillars and smoke rising from the wreckage of the train below.