# Ed Sheeran Speaks on Israel-Gaza Conflict

> Ed Sheeran addresses Israel-Gaza conflict after Macklemore's tour removal, saying he can't hide his feelings.
- Title: Ed Sheeran Speaks on Israel-Gaza Conflict · Rolling Stone
- Summary: Ed Sheeran addresses Israel-Gaza conflict after Macklemore's tour removal, saying he can't hide his feelings. Ed Sheeran clarifies his stance on Israel-Gaza…
- Keywords: ed sheeran, macklemore, seattle, nfl, israel, gaza, loop tour, galway girl, philadelphia, concert, Sheeran, Speaks
- Source: Rolling Stone — https://rollingstone.com/music/music-news/ed-sheeran-breaks-silence-gaza-isreael-macklemore-concert-1235629139
- Author: Charisma Madarang,Maya Georgi
- Published: 2026-09-20T01:03:59+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ed sheeran, macklemore, seattle, nfl, israel, gaza, loop tour, galway girl, philadelphia, concert
## Ed Sheeran opens show
Sheeran performed first show since Macklemore was removed from tour due to Palestinian support speech.

> This is not usually how I would open the show, but before I play some songs tonight, I hope it’s okay if I say a few words about this last week.
## Sheeran addresses backlash
He admitted to making difficult decisions and apologizing for the criticism after Macklemore's tour removal.

> I am so so sorry.
## Macklemore's tour exit
Macklemore was removed from tour after speaking at MetLife Stadium supporting Palestinians.

> I am deeply worried about the idea that venues should pre-approve content for performers.
## Israel-Gaza conflict stance
Sheeran called the situation in Israel and Gaza 'horrific' and 'catastrophic', emphasizing civilian impact.

> What happened in Israel and at the Nova Music Festival on October 7 was horrific and compounded centuries of Jewish pain.
## Humanitarian focus
He stressed the need for unity and compassion over political division in the face of humanitarian crisis.

> My heart has been broken by the scale of devastation and loss of civilians’ lives, of children’s lives.
## Fan support
Sheeran thanked fans for standing by him despite political tensions and criticism.

> I honestly am so grateful that you’re here tonight with me.
## Tour impact
All opening acts withdrew from Loop Tour following Sheeran's comments on Israel-Gaza conflict.

> Money doesn’t give you the right to own the conversation.
## Safety concerns
Sheeran removed secondary stage due to fears of audience hostility after tour controversy.

> I took the B stage out because I was afraid of what might happen if I stood in the middle.
## Key takeaway

Ed Sheeran clarifies his stance on Israel-Gaza conflict after Macklemore's tour removal, emphasizing humanitarian concerns.