UK gripped by escalating far-right violence targeting Muslims as police struggle to contain unrest

A surge in extreme right-wing activity has led to a dramatic increase in threats and attacks against Muslims in the UK. The government has announced emergency measures to protect mosques while police battle widespread riots and clashes.

A wave of anti-Muslim hate crimes and violence is sweeping across the UK, fueled by a surge in extreme right-wing activity, a leading monitoring group warned Sunday. Tell Mama reported a fivefold increase in threats, including rape and death, and a threefold rise in hate crime incidents targeting Muslims in just one week.

The charity’s director, Iman Atta, described the situation as “terrifying,” with Muslims too scared to leave their homes or attend mosques. She blamed the surge on misinformation and disinformation spread by the far-right following a fatal stabbing in Southport. “This led to far-right anti-Muslim hate marches across the UK, and to the far right mobilising and spreading more hate online,” Atta said.

The government has responded by announcing a £29.4 million funding package to enhance mosque security and introducing a rapid response process to deploy additional security personnel to at-risk places of worship. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper vowed to bring the perpetrators of violence to justice, stating, “Anyone involved in this disorder and violence will face the full force of the law.”

However, the crisis extends beyond mosques. The UK is experiencing its worst wave of riots in 13 years, with far-right demonstrators targeting asylum seekers and ethnic minority communities. Violent clashes, looting, and attacks on police have erupted in multiple cities. Former Scottish leader Humza Yousaf called for decisive action, warning that the situation is spiraling out of control.

Social media has played a significant role in fueling the unrest. False reports claiming the Southport attacker was a Muslim migrant have inflamed tensions and prompted Islamophobic attacks. Police have confirmed the suspect is a 17-year-old born in Cardiff.

As the situation worsens, authorities face the daunting task of quelling the violence, protecting vulnerable communities, and bringing those responsible to justice. The UK is at a critical juncture, with the potential for further escalation unless decisive action is taken.