Ed Sheeran has spoken out about his recent controversy after Macklemore was dropped from his show amid pro-Palestine stance.
Turning to his Instagram account on Tuesday, September 15, the singer penned, "I am appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine. 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."
Ed shared that following Macklemore's New Jersey performances, venues told him that they would pull out the shows if "he was still supporting".
"I spoke with the venues at length all week to try and build a bridge. One of those people was Robert Kraft. I was also involved in direct talks with promoters along with activists on both sides to try and find a mutual resolution for all, but the venue's and promoter's decision was final."
The Shape of You hitmaker claimed that the decision to remove Macklemore from tour was not promoter's and not his.
"I would never let down the fans who had made plans, nor would I abandon the touring crew and the other support acts and musicians who rely on me for work and to make a living."
"I am not complicit. I have my personal views on this devastating conflict. Just because I choose not to speak publicly, it doesn't mean I don't have them, and it doesn't mean I don't care. Nor does it mean I don't support causes in my own, personal way."
Why Ed Sheeran does not share his political stance on social media?
After being called out for his apolitical viewpoint by Macklemore on Monday, Ed said that the reason he does not divulge into politics on his platforms is because of his audiences, which include "young people, often children, of all backgrounds".
Ed Sheeran says he respect Macklemore but chose peace
"I respect Macklemore's strength of purpose to stand up and shout for what he believes. However, there is room for multiple approaches to the same end: peace. I choose to use my fame and platform to be a place of safety and sanctuary, to maintain diplomacy and keep conversations open, not closed. If we only focus on shouting the loudest, nothing will ever change. There are different approaches to being an advocate for change."
Concluding his lengthy statement, Ed Sheeran wrote, "I have spent this week trying to build bridges, to find a solution and unfortunately, was unable to do so. I know who I am, both as a person and as an artist, and those who know my heart know my values too."
Macklemore was dropped from the rest of Ed Sheeran's stadium tour after several venues allegedly shared that they would not allow the rapper to perform.
The news came after the Thrift Shop rapper made several onstage statements in support of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank and called for a "Free Palestine".
