Sheeran says situation in Gaza is 'catastrophic and unjustifiable' as he opens solo concert

Ed Sheeran opened a solo concert in Philadelphia on Saturday with remarks about Gaza amid controversy around his tour. After supporting acts withdrew following comments by his original U.S. opener Macklemore—who was dropped after saying “Free Palestine” onstage on Sept. 5 in New Jersey—Sheeran said he wants his music and shows to focus on unity and humanity rather than politics. Still, he called the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks in Israel “horrific” and said what is happening in Gaza is “catastrophic and unjustifiable.” He spoke at Lincoln Financial Field during a nearly full stadium. The week’s fallout included changes to supporting lineups, including replacements by Lukas Graham and Aaron Rowe before they later backed out, while Finneas withdrew from a South America run. Macklemore said he would donate $1 million and asked Robert Kraft to match it; Kraft’s spokesperson said both Kraft and Sheeran agreed to donate $2 million each, without specifying where it will go.