Indonesia's Islamic council demands cancellation of Bocelli concerts over Israel

The Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) convened on Thursday to express apprehension regarding the deteriorating law and order situation within the nation and the tumultuousness unfolding in international conflicts, particularly those involving Middle Eastern countries. Dr Muhammad Raghib Hussain Naeemi, the CII Chairman, presided over the meeting where members deliberated on terrorism in Pakistan, legal and national issues, and the issuance of licenses for religious television networks.

The council voiced its concerns over maritime traffic and shipping lines due to the Strait of Hormuz's closure, a consequence of the US-Iran war. They also indirectly criticized the Houthis for their intervention in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea. However, no country was named in the meeting minutes. Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthis have been embroiled in a fierce conflict for weeks, with the latter closing the crucial waterway.

The council showed regret over the death of three Pakistanis in attacks by Somali pirates and prayed for the departed. They also approved ringtone messages related to respect for flags and banners during Muharram, highlighting the sanctity of the month. The council advocated for the issuance of licenses for religious TV channels, similar to other channels, and suggested amending laws and rules accordingly.

Currently, religious channels do not have a specific category with the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), as it could provoke sectarianism. The council also proposed the establishment of a special inheritance tribunal to expedite cases related to women's property and inheritance following the Federal Shariat Court's decision on the abolition of 'chaddar and parchi'.

The council supported the 'Muslim Family Laws (Father’s Maintenance) Amendment Bill 2026' and declared that the rights of children and wives for maintenance do not expire even after the time limit for hearing has passed. The council commended the Supreme Court's decision upholding the death sentence of Qaiser Ayub in a blasphemy case, acknowledging that such incidents of blasphemy are a reality.