RismadarVoice Reporters
September 20, 2026
British singer Ed Sheeran has described the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic”, “unjustifiable” and “disproportionate” as he publicly addressed a controversy surrounding his North American Loop Tour.
Sheeran made the comments during his concert at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Saturday night, where the tour resumed amid protests and the withdrawal of supporting performers.
The controversy followed the removal of American rapper Macklemore from the tour lineup after remarks supporting Palestinians at an earlier concert in New Jersey drew criticism.
Sheeran has denied responsibility for dropping Macklemore, saying the tour promoter made the decision.
SUPPORTING ACTS WITHDRAW
Four supporting acts subsequently withdrew from Sheeran’s tour, with some publicly citing solidarity with Palestinians.
Among them was Finneas, the singer, songwriter and producer known for his collaborations with his sister Billie Eilish.
Finneas said artists should not be silenced for speaking in support of oppressed people and publicly declared his support for Palestinians.
With no opening acts in Philadelphia, Sheeran performed alone, while the concert reportedly began later than originally scheduled.
PROTESTERS GATHER OUTSIDE STADIUM
About 50 pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered outside Lincoln Financial Field ahead of Saturday’s performance, carrying Palestinian flags and calling for support for Palestinians.
Some protesters criticised Sheeran’s handling of the controversy, while other concertgoers said political disagreements should not overshadow the music.
The dispute has placed Sheeran at the centre of a wider debate over artists, political expression and the Israel-Gaza war.
His remarks in Philadelphia represented his first public comments on the broader Gaza situation since the controversy surrounding his tour intensified.
