Indonesia’s top Muslim council opposes upcoming Andrea Bocelli concerts over Israel ties

Jakarta, Indonesia (AP) — Indonesia’s foremost Islamic council convened with government representatives on Wednesday to express disapproval of two upcoming performances by Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli. The council, the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), contends that Bocelli’s previous advocacy for Israel clashes with the sentiment of many in the predominantly Muslim nation.

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) demanded the cancellation of Bocelli’s scheduled shows at the UNESCO World Heritage site Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, on October 31, and in Jakarta on November 3. The council highlighted Bocelli’s involvement in an 2010 fundraising event for Israel Defense Forces and a 2022 concert in Tel Aviv.

MUI’s objection stems from Bocelli’s past support for Israel, as the council asserts that hosting a performer who has financially backed or facilitated military activities tied to humanitarian transgressions in Gaza contradicts the values of the Indonesian state and MUI’s religious directives.

Public empathy for Palestinians is prevalent in Indonesia, a country with the largest Muslim population globally, and the government has consistently advocated for an independent Palestinian state. Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism Secretary Bayu Aji stated that discussions with MUI aimed to reach a consensus, emphasizing that the government supports Palestine and adheres to the MUI’s directives.

At the local level, police in Magelang withdrew a permit recommendation for the Borobudur complex concert following opposition from several Islamic groups, intensifying pressure on event organizers. Neither Bocelli nor the concert organizers have yet responded to MUI’s objections. The Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour marks Bocelli’s celebration of his iconic album, "Romanza," and features "Con Te Partirò," a signature song.