LAGOS OCTOBER 7TH (NEWSRANGERS)-Indonesia has banned a planned concert by US gospel singer Israel Houghton and his group Israel & New Breed, citing controversy over Houghton’s perceived support for Israel.
The concert, part of Houghton’s “Til The Whole World Knows Tour 2026,” was scheduled for October 24 in Jakarta.
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra said Houghton’s gospel performances in some other countries had been used to promote political support for Israel, including through the repeated statement “I stand with Israel” during performances.
The statement is particularly sensitive in Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim country that does not have diplomatic relations with Israel and has long supported Palestinian independence.
Yusril said the government was not opposed to gospel music or religious activities.
“We do not ban music performances and we do not question someone’s religion. People are free to conduct religious activities here,” he said in a statement posted on the ministry’s website.
“But if there is indeed a political motive that harms the struggle of the Palestinian people, then that is not in line with the thinking and aspirations of our own society.”
The concert had attracted opposition from pro-Palestinian groups in Indonesia, who raised concerns about Houghton’s support for Israel.
The issue had also become controversial in Malaysia, where the tour had drawn scrutiny amid wider regional sensitivity over public expressions of support for Israel following the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023.
Indonesia has also strongly criticized Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
dpa
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