Sheeran calls Gaza war unjustifiable amid tour controversy
The singer apologized for recent decisions while condemning Israeli actions in Gaza during his first solo performance after opening acts were removed.
Ed Sheeran made his first public comments on stage regarding the conflict in Gaza, describing Israeli actions as unjustifiable. The British singer performed in Philadelphia after facing backlash and losing all opening acts from his current Loop Tour schedule due to political pressure.
About a week after widespread international criticism for dropping his pro-Palestinian support act, Sheeran addressed the audience directly. He stated that what Israel is doing in Gaza is catastrophic and disproportionate. His remarks came during a solo performance at Lincoln Financial Field following significant controversies involving stadium owners.
American rapper Macklemore was originally scheduled to open for Sheeran but was removed from the tour last week. Stadium owner Robert Kraft demanded his removal over pro-Palestine speeches on stage. Kraft threatened to cancel Sheeran's concerts at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough if the rapper remained part of the lineup.
Kraft also lobbied other stadium owners to join him in applying pressure on the tour organizers. Sheeran has shows scheduled for 25 and 26 September at the Massachusetts venue. The singer told his Philadelphia audience that he had to make difficult decisions and admitted he was making mistakes during this turbulent period.
Pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the venue hours before the concert was due to start. US media reported the start time was pushed back by two and a half hours because all opening acts withdrew. Sheeran performed solo and said he was so sorry to his fans for the recent disruptions and confusion.