# Ed Sheeran’s Gaza Tour Crisis

> Ed Sheeran scrambles to save Loop Tour after dropping Macklemore amid Gaza backlash
- Title: Ed Sheeran’s Gaza Tour Crisis · Malay Mail | Shortify
- Summary: Ed Sheeran scrambles to save Loop Tour after dropping Macklemore amid Gaza backlash Sheeran faces boycott calls for dropping Macklemore over Gaza politics
- Keywords: ed sheeran, macklemore, gaza, loop tour, palestine, singer, concert, boycott, news, world, Sheeran, Tour
- Source: Malay Mail — https://malaymail.com/news/showbiz/2026/09/18/doom-loop-ed-sheeran-cant-outrun-gaza-politics/235606
- Published: 2026-09-18T10:31:03+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ed sheeran, macklemore, gaza, loop tour, palestine, singer, concert, boycott, news, world
## Gaza backlash hits Sheeran
Ed Sheeran faces boycott calls after dropping Macklemore due to US stadium owner pressure

> Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed
## Macklemore’s role
Macklemore performed at Sheeran’s concerts in New Jersey supporting Palestinian rights

> Free Palestine
## Critics’ accusations
Sheeran accused of failing to defend free speech and prioritizing profit over principles

> If I was Ed, I'd swallow my pride and cancel the tour
## Supporters’ demands
PACBI urges Sheeran to reinstate Macklemore and calls for boycott of his tour

> Until then, we call on opening artists, audiences and where possible crew to boycott the complicit tour
## Musician’s stance
Sheeran claims he does not use his platform for politics but has performed at pro-Ukraine events

> Music's never been politically neutral
## Industry reaction
Experts say Sheeran’s actions reflect political positioning despite claims of neutrality

> His initial response is a political position
## Gaza activism trend
Gaza war has become a major focus in entertainment industry events and discussions

> Palestine is much more at the forefront than it has ever been
## Fan reactions
Core fans unlikely to abandon Sheeran but casual listeners may feel alienated

> His most committed fans were unlikely to abandon him
## Political context
Israel invaded Gaza in October 2023 following Hamas attack on the country

> The worst attack on the country in its history by group Hamas
## Key takeaway

Sheeran faces boycott calls for dropping Macklemore over Gaza politics