Macklemore calls for a ‘free Palestine’ during Ed Sheeran shows, prompting praise and backlash

NEWS SUMMARY

American rapper Macklemore called for a "free Palestine" during his opening act performances for Ed Sheeran's Loop tour in New Jersey, displaying footage from Gaza and the West Bank and performing a pro-Palestine anthem. The rapper's statements prompted praise from rights advocates and backlash from pro-Israel groups, who accused him of spreading propaganda and antisemitism, while Macklemore stated his message was for peace and equality for all.

Full BriefOn request

Submitted by Ghalia Mohamed on Mon, 09/07/2026 - 13:42 Pro-Israeli organisation accused of attempting to curb free speech after launching petition to remove American rapper from tour Macklemore performing at the Goldencoast Rap Festival in Corcelles-les-Monts, France, last month (Arnaud Finistre/AFP) Off Rights advocates, journalists and social media users have come out in support of the American rapper Macklemore in response to pressure from pro-Israel groups for expressing support for Palestin

Macklemore calls for a ‘free Palestine’ during Ed Sheeran shows, prompting praise and backlash

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