NEW YORK — Ed Sheeran is speaking out after Macklemore was pulled as the supporting act on his tour following comments the rapper made about Palestine.

According to the headliner, that choice was made by the tour’s promoter when venues hosting the pair’s visits became uncomfortable with the how the opener expressed his politics.

“I was informed that this stance was based on how Macklemore conveyed part of his message during his performance, rather than on everything that was said,” according to a message Sheeran posted to social media. “I spoke with the venues at length all week to try and build a bridge. One of those people was [Gillette Stadium owner] 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 controversy began following a New Jersey performance where Macklemore said “Free Palestine” along with other comments opposing Israel’s invasion of Gaza after Hamas attacked Israelis on Oct. 7, 2023.

According to Sheeran, he too is “appalled by the conflict between Israel and Palestine,” but chooses not to get into the politics of the “human tragedy” playing out overseas. He also makes clear in his statement he’d rather not interfere in matters playing out around his tour in the U.S.

“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,” Sheeran added.

That isn’t to say Sheeran, who’s English, isn’t aware of the conflict in Gaza.

“I am not complicit,” he wrote. “I have my views on this devastating conflict. Just because I choose not to speak publicly doesn’t mean I don’t have them, and it doesn’t mean I don’t care.”

Macklemore put the blame on “Sheeran and his team” in a statement posted Monday that said he still considers his longtime friend and colleague a brother.

“Because of that, we’ve had some difficult conversations this week,” the Seattle rapper wrote.

Macklemore repeated his support for “the Palestinian people,” whom he referred to as the real victims in the matter.

Several dates remain on Sheeran’s tour including two Gillette Stadium performances in Massachusetts.

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