Sheeran condemns Gaza devastation, apologises over tour dispute

Ed Sheeran expressed his "heartbreak" over the severe civilian suffering in Gaza while apologizing for errors during the controversy surrounding Macklemore's removal from his US tour. Addressing fans at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Sheeran described the situation in Gaza as "catastrophic, unjustifiable, and disproportionate," stating that the humanitarian toll had compelled him to speak out despite his preference to keep politics away from his concerts.

Sheeran also condemned the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, calling it "horrific" and acknowledging the centuries of Jewish pain it compounded. He further highlighted the unjust impact on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, which he deemed "cannot be ignored." This was Sheeran's most detailed public commentary on the conflict, following a week of criticism over Macklemore's removal from the remaining US dates of the Loop Tour.

Macklemore had used an earlier appearance to support Palestinians, urging audiences to say "Free Palestine" and perform his protest song "Hind's Hall." Several venues objected to Macklemore's continued inclusion, leading to potential cancellations for hundreds of thousands of ticket holders. Sheeran attempted to find a compromise with venues but ultimately conceded that the final decision rested with the promoter and venues.

Following the controversy, supporting performers Lukas Graham, Aaron Rowe, and Irish folk group Beoga withdrew from the US leg, while South American act Finneas also stepped away, asserting that artists should not be silenced for speaking about oppression. Robert Kraft, whose business interests include Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, confirmed Macklemore would not perform there due to his antisemitic rhetoric and imagery.

Macklemore denied targeting Jewish people, claiming his criticism was focused on Israel's actions and the treatment of Palestinians. He pledged $1 million to support Palestinian organizations. Sheeran, who never intended to become an activist musician, found himself at the center of a debate involving free speech, artistic expression, and the war.

He emphasized that his concerts should be places where individuals with differing views could gather together, stating that his concerts aim to be "safe spaces for everyone" and that disagreement should not prevent people from sharing music. The Philadelphia show, the first solo concert since the dispute escalated, proceeded without the scheduled opening acts.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered near the stadium before the performance, and police were monitoring the event and adjusting security arrangements as needed.