Jennifer Lopez’s recent performance in Saudi Arabia has sparked significant backlash in Turkey, escalating to the diplomatic level under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s administration.
The controversy centers around the use of the Kaaba’s silhouette as stage decoration during her concert, which many Muslims view as deeply sacred.
The Kaaba, located in Mecca, is the central structure of the Great Mosque and a crucial symbol in Islam, which all Muslims are required to visit at least once in their lifetime.
During the performance at the Riyadh Festival, Lopez danced in front of the Kaaba’s depiction, igniting outrage in Turkey.
Former Turkish President of Religious Affairs Mehmet Görmez harshly criticized Saudi Arabia, accusing it of disrespecting Islamic values. Görmez stated, “The Kaaba is not the property of any tribe, nation, or state. Using its silhouette as mere decoration is an insult incompatible with the values of Islam. This act deeply hurts believers and violates the sanctity of Islam’s holiest symbol.”
Although there has been widespread outrage in Turkey, including calls for the current President of Religious Affairs, Ali Erba, to speak out, he has yet to address the issue. The Turkish press has further fueled tensions, accusing Saudi Arabia of commodifying mosques by hosting such performances.
This controversy has heightened diplomatic tensions between Turkey and Saudi Arabia, highlighting cultural and religious sensitivities in the region.
