The Brief Robert Kraft pledged $2 million toward humanitarian relief after saying Ed Sheeran personally called and asked him to make the commitment. Macklemore pledged $1 million from his net earnings on Sheeran's tour to organizations supporting Palestinians and challenged Kraft to match his donation. The donations come amid a growing dispute over Macklemore's removal from Sheeran's tour following his pro-Palestinian remarks, with several other acts subsequently withdrawing from the tour.



Robert Kraft has pledged $2 million toward humanitarian relief amid the controversy surrounding Macklemore's removal from Ed Sheeran's tour.

Kraft said Sheeran had called him earlier Wednesday and asked him to commit $2 million, before rapper Macklemore publicly challenged Kraft to match his $1 million donation.

Robert Kraft pledges $2 million donation

What they're saying:

In a statement released on the Gillette Stadium X account, Kraft, the billionaire owner of the New England Patriots, said,  I have dedicated much of my life to building bridges between all people. I believe deeply that all lives are worth protecting. Earlier today, before Macklemore challenged me to match his donation, Ed called me and asked me to commit $2 million to match his donation to aid in the region to fight this humanitarian crisis. Ed now plans to reach out to other venue owners and our goal is to continue to work together to build bridges. 



He added,  In addition, I'd like the people who are speaking in support of the Palestinian people to know that for decades, I have supported efforts that create opportunity for Palestinians and have brought young Palestinians and Israelis together to build businesses, create jobs, and forge relationships. 

CEO of the New England Patriots Robert Kraft attends the Super Bowl LIII Pregame at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 3, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

Earlier on Wednesday, Macklemore announced he would be donating $1 million in net earnings he received from performing on Sheeran's tour to organizations that support the Palestinian people. He

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