New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has issued a statement defending his decision to create what amounts to a ban on rapper Macklemore performing in support of Ed Sheeran at a number of stadiums following the rapper’s comments regarding Palestine, which took place at concerts in New Jersey on Sept. The 43-year-old artist chanted 'Free Palestine' at MetLife Stadium and accused Israel of apartheid and genocide earlier this month Key points and original sources are listed below.

• New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has issued a statement defending his decision to create what amounts to a ban on rapper Macklemore performing in support of Ed Sheeran at a number of stadiums following the rapper’s comments regarding Palestine, which to...S1

• The 43-year-old artist chanted 'Free Palestine' at MetLife Stadium and accused Israel of apartheid and genocide earlier this monthS2

• The "Thrift Shop" rapper claimed the "Shape of You" singer "was in a f--ked up position" and that his "typical apolitical stance was being challenged."S3

• The US rapper was condemned by Jewish groups after making comments criticising Israel.S4

• The rapper, a critic of the war in Gaza, made the comments onstage at MetLife Stadium.S5