Indonesia Bans Jakarta Gospel Concert Over Political Statements Supporting Israel
The Indonesian government has banned a planned concert by American gospel singer Israel Houghton and his group Israel & New Breed, scheduled for October 24, citing domestic security concerns and statements made by the artist supporting Israel. Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra announced the decision during a press conference in Jakarta on Monday, stating that the event’s political undertones conflict with the country’s foreign policy and support for Palestinian independence.
Israel Houghton support for Israel conflicts with foreign policy
Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated that the decision followed consultations with several ministries, institutions, and relevant agencies regarding the ‘Til The Whole World Knows Tour 2026’ concert. Yusril clarified that the ban is unrelated to Houghton’s religion or his music, but rather stems from concerns over his public expressions of support for Israel during overseas performances. He noted that statements such as “I stand with Israel” are sensitive and do not align with Indonesia’s foreign policy supporting Palestinian independence. Government checks revealed that while tickets were being sold through online platforms and sponsored by Kuala Lumpur-based Banyak Bagus Entertainment, neither permit applications nor visa applications had been submitted for the event at Grha Pengharapan in Jakarta. Yusril urged ticketing agents to stop sales and refund purchasers.
Controversy and Police Warnings in Malaysia
The tour has also faced scrutiny and controversy in neighboring Malaysia, where police have raised concerns over planned performances. In Sabah, Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun announced on September 28 that police would advise the state government against allowing Houghton’s concert to proceed for the time being, citing public reactions, community sensitivities, and two lodged police reports. Former High Court judge Datuk Nurchaya Arshad cautioned that public sensitivities should not be confused with actual security threats, arguing that Sabah’s tradition of religious coexistence should be preserved. Meanwhile, Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng argued that security risks should be managed rather than used to cancel events, comparing the situation to Malaysia previously hosting foreign leaders despite protests. DAP Sabah Chairman and Senator Phoong Jin Zhe similarly emphasized the historical commitments to religious freedom enshrined in the Keningau Oath Stone, urging authorities to prioritize public order management over outright cancellations.
Where and why Indonesia blocked Israel Houghton concert?
Where was the Israel Houghton concert scheduled to take place in Indonesia?
The concert was scheduled to be held at Grha Pengharapan in Jakarta on October 24, 2026, as part of the ‘Til The Whole World Knows Tour 2026’.
What specific reason did Indonesian authorities give for blocking the concert?
Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra cited domestic security considerations and concerns that the artist’s past statements saying “I stand with Israel” conflict with Indonesia’s official foreign policy and support for Palestinian independence.
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