Muslim leaders urge restraint in face of UK riots

After a week of facing aggression, Muslim individuals show readiness to defend their homes, businesses and mosques, with violence if necessary. However, Muslim community leaders have urged these Muslims to show restraint, according to an article published yesterday by The Guardian.

On Monday 5th August, several hundred Muslim men gathered in the Bordesley area of Birmingham. This came about as threats of an imminent attack by the English Defence League and other far-right activists circulated on social media. However, no clashes occurred between groups.

Shakeel Afsar, an independent candidate during the Birmingham Green Hall and Moseley election, said “reasonable force” may be needed to defend communities. He further states that “We will stand here and defend our businesses and homes”, adding that “if attacked, we will use reasonable and necessary force.”