British pop star Ed Sheeran calls Israel's treatment of Gazans 'unjustifiable,' apologises for Macklemore controversy

British pop star Ed Sheeran apologized on Saturday for his handling of a controversy involving rapper Macklemore being removed as an opening act over Macklemore's "Free Palestine" comments. Sheeran described Israel's treatment of Gaza residents as "unjustifiable" and said the October 2023 Hamas attack as "horrific." He also called Israel's subsequent invasion, which has killed thousands in Gaza, "catastrophic and unjustifiable."

Sheeran also criticized the expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank. His response contrasted with earlier statements where he claimed to have only "political forums" at his concerts. The controversy began when Macklemore announced he would not perform at a concert in Massachusetts if he continued to speak out about Palestine.

Subsequent acts also withdrew their participation. Sheeran expressed concern about concert venues vetting performers' content, stating it should not happen in the "free world." Despite the controversy, Sheeran's concert in Philadelphia proceeded as scheduled and drew both supportive and critical audiences. Pro-Palestinian protesters gathered nearby, discussing the situation in Gaza and advocating for Palestinian rights.