Macklemore faces backlash over tour funding for Palestine Youth Movement

Rapper Macklemore is facing scrutiny regarding his upcoming UK tour, as proceeds from his October 30 concert at London’s Wembley Arena are slated to benefit several organizations, including the Palestine Youth Movement.

The Jewish Leadership Council has warned that funding the Palestine Youth Movement risks legitimizing violence against Jewish communities. This follows reports that a UK spokesperson for the movement previously described the October 7 Hamas hostage-taking as “legitimate” and “effective,” while the group itself characterized the events as a “prison break.” The Council has urged Live Nation to disclose its vetting processes and implement safety measures to protect staff and attendees from antisemitic incitement.

This controversy follows Macklemore’s recent removal from Ed Sheeran’s US tour. The rapper was dropped by promoter Messina Touring Group after making anti-Israel statements on stage, including accusations of genocide and apartheid against Israel. The decision followed notifications from venue owners, such as Robert Kraft, who indicated they would not permit him on the lineup.