National broadcaster RTÉ is considering drastically scaling back its television coverage of the Republic of Ireland’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Israel, following widespread public debate and calls for a broadcast boycott over the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Senior management at the broadcaster met to discuss options for broaching the matches scheduled for September 27 and October 4. It is understood that RTÉ is unlikely to provide standard studio presentation, pre-match or post-match punditry, or dedicated commentary teams. Instead, proposals under consideration would see the station broadcast only an unedited world feed provided by UEFA, fulfilling its contractual broadcast obligations while removing editorial framing. A final decision is expected early next week.

The upcoming Group B3 games have generated significant political and public discussion in Ireland. The away fixture on September 27 is set to take place in Debrecen, Hungary. The return leg on October 4, originally designated as Ireland's home game, was moved by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to Bačka Topola, Serbia, where it will be played behind closed doors due to operational and security concerns.

The broadcasting review follows calls from trade unions and activist organizations urging a boycott. In June, trade union SIPTU urged RTÉ to refuse coverage and pledged to support members who declined to work on the broadcast. RTÉ previously stated in February that while it operates under different parameters for events like the Eurovision Song Contest, it remains bound by strict legal and contractual agreements with UEFA regarding official international football fixtures.