Ed Sheeran performed his live return at Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field on 19 September following a week of controversy over rapper Macklemore being dropped from his 'Loop' tour due to pro-Palestine comments. The singer performed solo after all support acts and his backing band withdrew, and used the opening of the concert to extensively address the row, admitting to making "mistakes" and apologising to fans whilst acknowledging the dispute had made him question whether he wanted to continue as an artist.

During his speech, Sheeran expressed deep concern about venues controlling performer content and broke his usual stance of avoiding political commentary to address the Israel-Gaza conflict. He acknowledged both the "horrific" attacks at the Nova music festival on 7 October and described the situation in Gaza as "catastrophic, unjustifiable, and disproportionate", whilst emphasising his commitment to ensuring his concerts remain "a safe space for everyone" where people with differing views can unite through music about "love, hope and unity".