Difficult time for Muslims in UK-PM

March 04, 2025
Prime Minister marks Ramadan at ‘difficult time for Muslims in the UK’

The Prime Minister has acknowledged that this Ramadan is occurring during a particularly "difficult time for Muslims in the UK."

Recognition of Difficulties: The Prime Minister has expressed that he understands this is a very difficult time for Muslims in the UK. This acknowledgement is strongly linked to the "pain of the conflict in Gaza" and the impact that international conflicts have on communities within the UK.Also the rise of anti muslim hate crime is a factor.

Addressing Concerns: He has also addressed the rise of anti-Muslim hatred, which he said was being "whipped up by far-right rhetoric and disinformation".The prime minister also addressed the need for a two state solution for the Israeli/palestinian conflict.

Expressions of Support:Despite these difficulties, the Prime Minister has also expressed his appreciation for the contributions of British Muslims to society.He has participated in Iftar events, demonstrating solidarity with the Muslim community.In essence, the Prime Minister's remarks highlight a recognition of the challenges faced by the Muslim community, while also emphasizing support and appreciation for their contributions.

In observance of Ramadan, which started on Friday and will run until March 30, Sir Keir Starmer went to "the big iftar" organized by the All-Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims. Speaking at the event on Tuesday night, the prime minister pondered on the "pain of the conflict in Gaza" and how fighting elsewhere "affects communities here at home," while also thanking British Muslims for their contributions to "every community in Britain." He stated: "I am aware that the suffering of the Palestinians and the conflict in Gaza have made this a very trying time for Muslims in the UK."

“I am absolutely clear that the Palestinian must be allowed to rebuild, and we should stand alongside them in this effort on the road to a two-state solution – the only way to get lasting peace in my opinion.”

Sir Keir also said that he was “horrified” by the “wave of hatred we have seen directed towards British Muslims” which he said was “whipped up by far-right rhetoric and disinformation”, particularly in the wake of the riots after three young girls were murdered in Southport last summer.“It is shocking – absolutely shocking – that 2024 was the worst year for anti-Muslim hate crime since the Home Office began collecting data,” the Prime Minister said.

“I always thought these numbers would go down, that there would be a better trend towards a better society. They’ve gone in the wrong direction to a record high – that’s how serious it is. But of course, they are just statistics, but behind those statistic are real people impacted everyday by this hatred, fearful for their families, fearful for their children facing harassment on our streets.”The Prime Minister said the images in Southport days after the riots of people rebuilding a wall in front of a mosque which was damaged is “the true spirit of this country” and wished attendees a “peaceful, blessed and fruitful holy month”.

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