The Islamic Republic of Iran has withdrawn from the 2026 Venice Biennale just days before the opening exhibition as fears remain high of renewed conflict in the Middle East.
Iran has ended its part in this year's Venice Biennale just days before the exhibition's opening to the public this weekend.
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In a short statement published on the exhibition website, the organisers state: "With regard to the National Participations in the 61st International Art Exhibition, In Minor Keys by Koyo Kouoh (9 May-22 November), it has been announced that the Islamic Republic of Iran will not participate."
No reason has yet been provided for the withdrawal.
The news will not come as much of a surprise to many as tensions remain high throughout the Middle East in the wake of the war waged by the United States and Israel against Tehran.
Although a fragile ceasefire has been in place for nearly a month, there are almost daily exchanges and threats from all sides as international ships and tankers remain stuck in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Recriminations and cancellations
This year's edition has already been affected by the tragic untimely death of its curator Koyo Kouoh and the decision of the organisers to invite Russia and Israel to participate.
In response, the jury resigned en mass last week after saying it wouldn't consider entries from countries whose leaders are subject to international arrest warrants for crimes against humanity.
In the absence of a jury, the two main Golden Lion prizes for best national pavilion and best artist will now be decided by a public vote with the award ceremony now set to take place in November instead of this month.
