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Ed Sheeran Says Situation in Gaza Is ‘Catastrophic and Unjustifiable’ at Philadelphia Tour Stop

Sheeran performed a solo concert Saturday night. Opener Macklemore was dropped from the tour this week for his "free Palestine" comments, and other supporting acts withdrew in solidarity.

Ed Sheeran Says Situation in Gaza Is ‘Catastrophic and Unjustifiable’ at Philadelphia Tour Stop

At a Philadelphia concert on Saturday, Ed Sheeran expressed his views on the situation in Gaza, describing it as "catastrophic and unjustifiable" and "disproportionate." He spoke from the stage of Lincoln Financial Field, saying that the recent events were a horrific continuation of centuries of Jewish pain. Sheeran stated that his music and shows should focus on unity and humanity, rather than politics.

He also expressed his commitment to helping victims of the ongoing turmoil, acknowledging that he still needed to learn more about the situation. The concert was part of Sheeran's Loop Tour, which he has primarily performed solo, but had occasionally joined by the Irish folk band Beoga. Other supporting acts, including Macklemore and Lukas Graham, also pulled out of the tour in solidarity with Sheeran, who was replaced by Aaron Rowe.

Some attendees at the concert were disappointed that Sheeran did not take a stronger political stance, while others defended his right to choose not to engage in the discussion.

Written by urgent.news from Billboard's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Also reported by 10 other outlets

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