Macklemore Cancels Dubai Concert Over Sudan Crisis

Rapper Macklemore has canceled his October concert in Dubai, citing the UAE's involvement in the Sudan crisis through its alleged support of the paramilitary force that has been battling government troops. He highlighted his decision on Instagram, noting he was urged to withdraw as a stand against the "ongoing genocide and humanitarian crisis." The UAE has denied these allegations, despite UN experts in January reporting "credible" evidence of arms being supplies to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The Sudanese conflict erupted in mid-April 2023, with violent clashes between military and paramilitary forces claiming over 18,800 lives and displacing millions. The UAE's reported involvement was condemned by Sudan in a heated UN Security Council meeting in June. Dubai authorities and concert organizers have not commented on Macklemore's cancellation statement.

Macklemore, who recently showed solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas war, expressed regret over disappointing fans but stood firm. "Until the UAE stops arming and funding the RSF, I will not perform there," he wrote. He added: "I have no judgment against other artists performing in the UAE. But I do ask the question to my peers scheduled to play in Dubai: If we used our platforms to mobilize collective liberation, what could we accomplish?" (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)