Ed Sheeran opens a solo concert in Philadelphia with comments about Gaza, saying what's happening is "catastrophic and unjustifiable".

In short:

Pop superstar Ed Sheeran has returned to the stage after he became embroiled in a controversy that saw four supporting acts quit his Loop Tour.

Rapper Macklemore was dropped from the tour after owners of stadiums hosting upcoming shows objected to his pro-Palestinian comments on stage, prompting other supporting acts to quit.

Pro-Palestinian protesters have gathered outside the Philadelphia stadium where Sheeran is performing.