Indonesia Blocks Israel Houghton Concert Over Security and Palestine Policy
The Indonesian government has withheld permits and visas for American gospel musician Israel Houghton and his group, Israel & New Breed, blocking their scheduled performance due to foreign policy alignment, domestic security concerns, and strict immigration regulations, Tempo.co reported. The concert, part of the Til The Whole World Knows Tour 2026,
was slated for October 24, 2026, at Grha Pengharapan in Jakarta.
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correction Affairs Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated that officials acted after evaluating domestic security risks alongside Indonesia’s official diplomatic support for Palestine. Yusril emphasized that the government is not challenging Houghton’s religious beliefs, but rather ensuring that no activity in the country is exploited for political propaganda that contradicts national foreign policy.
Government Evaluation of Public Security and Foreign Policy
The decision follows a public statement made by Israel Houghton in October 2023, during which he declared, I stand with Israel.
Yusril explained that any public event carrying potential to harm the struggle of the Palestinian people will not receive authorization to proceed.
Yusril coordinated the policy with the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs. Ticket platforms have been urged to stop sales and provide refunds to customers who purchased seats through promoter Banyak Bagus Entertainment.
Indonesia opposes Zionist Israel and denies visa application
On the immigration front, Yusril clarified that Israel Houghton has not submitted a visa application to enter Indonesia for the concert.
The MUI Fatwa Board chairperson Asrorun Niam Sholeh stated that Indonesia’s stance firmly opposes the genocidal actions committed by Zionist Israel.
Israel Houghton concert faces permit and visa blocks
When was the Israel Houghton concert originally scheduled to take place in Jakarta?
The concert was scheduled for October 24, 2026, at Grha Pengharapan in Jakarta as part of the ‘Til The Whole World Knows Tour 2026.
Which government ministry announced the permit and visa block in Indonesia?
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correction Affairs Yusril Ihza Mahendra announced the decision after inter-ministerial coordination.
Have the concert organizers submitted official paperwork to Indonesian authorities?
No formal permit application has been submitted to the Indonesian government, according to statements from Yusril Ihza Mahendra.
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