Ed Sheeran Addresses Gaza at Philadelphia Concert

Ed Sheeran returned to the stage in Philadelphia on the night of September 19. He began the concert with a speech criticizing Israel for killing Palestinians and discussed his position on Israel and Palestine, as well as what performing a concert meant in that context.

Sheeran described the events in Israel on October 7 and at the Nova museum festival as horrific. He described what was happening in Gaza as a disaster and characterized it as unjust and disproportionate.

Sheeran also said he was deeply concerned by the idea of venues approving artists’ content in advance. Macklemore was removed from the tour following an ultimatum from venue owners. The concert had no opening act because all previously planned opening artists left in solidarity with Macklemore and Palestine.

A pro-Palestinian protest took place outside the concert. Sheeran’s support group also left, but a new support group was found in time for the Philadelphia concert.