Ed Sheeran calls Gaza situation 'unjustifiable'

Ed Sheeran said the situation in Gaza was “catastrophic and unjustifiable and disproportionate” during his first concert since a controversy over the removal of rapper Macklemore from his US tour.

Speaking onstage in Philadelphia on Saturday, Sheeran also said the scale of civilian and child deaths in Gaza had broken hearts and that injustice in the West Bank could not be overlooked.

The comments marked a shift for the British singer, who had previously maintained an apolitical stance. Sheeran told the audience he had had to make difficult decisions, was making mistakes and was sorry.

Macklemore was removed from Sheeran's Loop Tour after declaring “Free Palestine” at a New Jersey concert this month, drawing backlash from owners of US stadiums hosting future dates. Sheeran has denied being behind the decision and said the tour promoter was responsible.

Four supporting acts later quit the tour, citing support for Palestinians. They included Sheeran's backing band and Finneas, who is known for his work with his sister Billie Eilish.

A few dozen pro-Palestinian protesters rallied peacefully outside Lincoln Financial Field before the Philadelphia show, waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free, free Palestine.” The stadium was close to capacity, despite increased ticket resales and lower prices during the week.

The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel called on artists, fans and crew members to boycott Sheeran's entire world tour, including upcoming Latin American dates and an unannounced European leg.

Sheeran began the show alone on stage, without an opening act. He later brought on five musicians who he said had learned his songs in three days.

Israel invaded Gaza in October 2023 after an attack on Israel by Hamas. The Gaza health ministry, which is under Hamas authority, says Israel's offensive has killed more than 73,800 people. The United Nations considers the ministry's figures reliable. Gaza authorities said Saturday that the latest Israeli fire had killed at least four people, including a 10-year-old girl.