Indonesia’s top Muslim council opposes upcoming Andrea Bocelli concerts over Israel ties
The council said Bocelli’s support for Israel conflicts with Indonesian values as officials weigh the fate of two shows and a withdrawn permit recommendation.
- On Wednesday, The Indonesian Ulema Council met with government officials to voice opposition against two upcoming Andrea Bocelli concerts, arguing the singer's past support for Israel is incompatible with the Muslim-majority country's views.
- Objections stem from Bocelli's participation in a 2010 fundraiser for the Israel Defense Forces and a 2022 concert in Tel Aviv, which the council claims contradicts Indonesian values.
- Police in Magelang withdrew a permit recommendation for the Oct. 31 performance at the UNESCO-listed Borobudur Temple, as opposition from several Islamic groups intensifies against the tour.
- Tourism Ministry Secretary Bayu Aji stated the government seeks consensus with the council, adding, "But if the MUI has already made a statement, we will certainly be aligned with the MUI's decision."
- Neither Bocelli nor concert organizers have issued a public response, though Indonesia maintains long-standing support for an independent Palestinian state, reflecting widespread public sympathy in the Muslim-majority nation.
29 Articles
29 Articles
Indonesia's top Islamic body met with government representatives today to express opposition to two upcoming concerts by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli.
Indonesia's top Muslim council opposes upcoming Andrea Bocelli co
FILE -Italian singer Andrea Bocelli performs during the "Canticle of Peace" prayer and fraternity meeting with Pope Leo XIV at Borgo Laudato Si' in Castel Gandolfo, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) southwest of Rome, Italy, July 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino, File)
Associated Press News
Indonesia’s top Muslim council opposes upcoming Andrea Bocelli concerts over Israel ties
Indonesia’s top Muslim clerical body has opposed upcoming concerts by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli at Borobudur Temple and Jakarta.
Indonesia’s Islamic Council Seeks Bocelli Concert Ban After Gospel Singer Barred (Worthy News Investigation)
Indonesia’s influential Islamic religious council has urged the government to ban concerts by world-renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli over his alleged support for Israel, days after authorities refused permission for an American Gospel singer to perform in the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 55% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
