Wave of Ani-Islam Sentiments Fuel Far-Right Riots Across Britain
Britain is grappling with a surge of ani-Islam sentiments as far-right riots erupt in multiple cities, targeting mosques and communities following the tragic stabbing of three children in Southport, TRTWorld reported yesterday.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the violence, attributing it to “far-right thuggery” from a “tiny mindless minority.”
Zara Mohammed, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain, highlighted the palpable fear among Muslims: “The anxiety and fear is palpable. Muslims had nothing to do with the murders in Southport, but they’re still attacking mosques.” She criticized the hierarchy of racism that marginalizes Muslim voices. “It’s both Islamophobic and anti-migrant rhetoric because they’re linked,” says Mohammed.
Despite the suspect, Axel Rudakubana, being revealed as a non-Muslim teenager, misinformation linking the attacks to Muslims persists. Mohammed stated, “They’re saying [Muslims] are not British… creating criminality and threats.”
The far-right rhetoric continues to spread on social media, with slogans like “We need our country back.” In response, the Muslim Council plans a Visit My Mosque program to foster understanding and combat misconceptions. Mohammed emphasized the urgency of addressing harmful narratives, urging accountability for those perpetuating fake news in the current climate of fear and division.