Indonesian Islamic Council Demands Cancellation of Andrea Bocelli Concerts Over Past Israel Support
Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli faces calls for the cancellation of his upcoming tour stops in Indonesia and Jordan following protests over his past support for Israel. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), the country’s most influential Islamic advisory body, met with the Indonesian government on Wednesday to demand that concerts scheduled at the Borobudur temple complex on Java and in Jakarta be scrapped, NPO Klassiek reported.
The protests center on Bocelli’s past appearances, which include a 2010 benefit concert for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Los Angeles and a 2022 performance in Tel Aviv. The MUI argues that providing a platform to an artist who has financially and publicly supported Israeli military actions runs counter to Indonesian values. Indonesia maintains the world’s largest Muslim population and expresses widespread public support for Palestinian independence.
Permit Status and Local Police Action in Magelang
Following discussions with demonstrators protesting the upcoming tour dates, police in Magelang withdrew their recommendation for the event permit covering the Borobudur temple complex performance. The shift creates uncertainty for the concert’s status, though authorities have not yet issued a definitive, final decision regarding whether the event will proceed. Bocelli’s Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour currently schedules the Borobudur appearance for October 31, followed by a Jakarta date on November 3.
Boycott Calls Emerge in Jordan Ahead of Petra Performance
Activists in Jordan are also mobilizing against the tenor’s scheduled November 27 performance at the ancient rock city of Petra. The Jordanian branch of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement is leading the push to block the concert. Organizers argue that Petra, one of the most prominent historical sites in the Arab world, should not serve as a venue for an artist who has raised funds for the Israeli military.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are Andrea Bocelli’s scheduled tour dates in Indonesia and Jordan?
Bocelli is scheduled to perform at the Borobudur temple complex on October 31, in Jakarta on November 3, and at the ancient site of Petra in Jordan on November 27.
Which organization is leading the protest in Indonesia?
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), which serves as the country’s most influential Islamic advisory body, is demanding the cancellation of the Indonesian tour dates.
What specific past events prompted the boycott calls?
Protesters point to Bocelli’s participation in a 2010 Los Angeles benefit event for the Israel Defense Forces and his 2022 concert in Tel Aviv.
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