Gospel singer Israel Houghton's concert is a no-go in Indonesia over security concerns
Indonesia has blocked a concert by gospel singer Israel Houghton due to security concerns and his public support for Israel. The government stated the decision aligns with its foreign policy regarding Palestinian independence.
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This highlights how geopolitical tensions and foreign policy stances can directly impact international cultural and entertainment events.
JAKARTA (Bernama): Indonesia will not allow a planned concert by American gospel singer Israel Houghton and his group Israel & New Breed later this month, citing domestic security considerations and concerns that the event could be used to express political support for Israel.
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra said the government decided after consultations with several relevant ministries and agencies over the planned ‘Heal the Whole World Knows Tour 2026’ concert, scheduled for Oct 24.
Yusril stressed that the decision was unrelated to Houghton’s religion or his name, but the government was concerned over his expressions of support for Israel, which he said were not in line with Indonesia’s foreign policy and its support for Palestinian independence.
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