Ed Sheeran Says Dropping Macklemore From Tour Was ‘Promoter’s Decision, Not Mine,’ Explains Why He’s Not Speaking Out on Israel and Palestine

Ed Sheeran has commented on the decision to drop Macklemore from his U.S. Loop tour after the rapper made forceful “free Palestine” comments on stage during a political speech during the rapper’s performances opening for the singer at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sept. 4 and 5.

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“I am appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine,” his statement reads. “The suffering and pain caused on both sides is a human tragedy. There are too many wars across the world causing immeasurable pain, none of which should be tolerated. Macklemore asked to join my tour last year and I agreed, because I respect him as an artist. As with all my support acts, I agree that they play a setlist of their choosing.

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Macklemore Speaks Out After Being Dropped From Ed Sheeran Tour, Says Singer Claimed That Saying 'Free Palestine' Was 'Hurtful to a Lot of People'