Ed Sheeran calls Israel’s treatment of Gazans ‘unjustifiable’
Sheeran also decried "systemic injustice" in the West Bank.
Ed Sheeran expressed regret on Saturday over his decision to remove rapper Macklemore from his concert tour following comments made by Macklemore regarding Israel's treatment of Palestinians in Gaza. The British singer apologized for taking "difficult decisions" and acknowledged that Israel's war on Gaza, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and displacement, is "catastrophic and unjustifiable and disproportionate."
Sheeran also condemned the "systemic injustice" in the West Bank due to Israel's expanding Jewish settlements.
Sheeran's stance on the issue marked a significant departure from his previous comments, which had stated that he did not expect his concert audiences to engage in political discussions. The controversy surrounding Sheeran began when Macklemore posted on Instagram about being denied the opportunity to perform in Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts due to his support for Palestine. Subsequently, other supporting acts withdrew from the tour in solidarity with Macklemore.
Despite agreeing to Macklemore's removal, Sheeran expressed concern over the practice of artists being vetted based on their political stance. He emphasized that such vetting should not occur in democratic societies. The controversy did not deter the fans who attended Sheeran's performance in Philadelphia, with many expressing support for both artists, focusing on the music rather than the politics.
Additionally, around half a mile from the concert venue, pro-Palestinian protesters gathered to discuss the conditions in Gaza and advocate for the Palestinian cause.
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