Ed Sheeran calls Gaza situation ‘unjustifiable’ after Palestine controversy

British pop star Ed Sheeran has made his first comments on the controversy that plunged his North America Loop Tour into turmoil, saying that the situation in Gaza is “catastrophic”, “unjustifiable” and “disproportionate”.

Sheeran made the remarks as he opened his show at the Lincoln Financial Field stadium in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where his tour resumed on Saturday night.

The pop singer has faced a wave of criticism after his opening act, American rapper Macklemore, was dropped from the lineup over his pro-Palestine comments at a concert in New Jersey earlier this month.

Macklemore’s comments drew backlash from owners of stadiums hosting Sheeran’s future tour dates. Sheeran has denied being behind the decision, blaming the tour promoter.

According to US media reports, the start time for the concert was pushed back two and a half hours because there were no opening acts and Sheeran performed solo.

All of Sheeran’s four supporting acts , including American singer Billie Eilish’s brother and musical collaborator, Finneas, walked out on Sheeran, issuing public statements citing their support for Palestinians.

Finneas and his sister have been outspoken about their support for Palestine before.

“Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed,” he said on Instagram last Tuesday, adding: “I stand with Palestine and its people.”