British singer Ed Sheeran has publicly addressed the Gaza conflict for the first time since rapper Macklemore was removed from his US Loop Tour following his pro-Palestinian comments.
Speaking at his concert at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Saturday, Sheeran described the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic and unjustifiable,” saying he could no longer keep his personal views private.
Sheeran said he had deliberately avoided political commentary throughout his career because he wanted his concerts to focus on unity and humanity rather than division. However, he said the situation had become a humanitarian issue that he felt unable to ignore.
The singer also acknowledged the October 7, 2023 attack in Israel, including the assault on the Nova music festival, which he described as horrific. He then expressed concern over the scale of civilian deaths and destruction in Gaza and criticised what he called “systemic injustice” in the West Bank.
Sheeran said he had been listening to people on different sides of the conflict and trying to understand how he could help those affected.
His remarks came amid continued controversy over Macklemore’s removal from the Loop Tour after the rapper made pro-Palestinian comments, including calling for a “Free Palestine” during a performance in New Jersey.
The tour promoter said venue concerns were involved in the decision, while Sheeran had previously stated that he was not responsible for removing Macklemore.
Several supporting acts, including Finneas, Lukas Graham, Aaron Rowe and Beoga, subsequently withdrew from the tour following Macklemore’s departure.
Sheeran also told his Philadelphia audience that his concerts should remain spaces where people with different opinions can come together through music, adding that his songs are about love, hope and unity.
The Philadelphia concert came as the controversy continued, with pro-Palestinian demonstrators also gathering outside the venue.
