British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak strongly condemned the increasing instances of ‘extremism’ in the United Kingdom. He cautioned that although individuals have the right to engage in peaceful marches and protests, advocating violence and extremism is unacceptable.
The UK Prime Minister remarked on the “alarming rise” in extremist disruption and criminal activity in recent weeks and months. He noted that what initially began as street protests has now escalated into instances of “intimidation, threats, and planned acts of violence.”
“Jewish children fearful to wear their school uniform lest it reveal their identity. Muslim women abused in the street for the actions of a terrorist group they have no connection with. Now our democracy itself is a target,” Sunak said in his address to the Nation from outside 10 Downing Street.
He recognized that immigrants from various parts of the world have arrived and assimilated into the country without forsaking their identities. “You can be a practising Hindu and a proud Briton as I am. Or a devout Muslim and a patriotic citizen as so many are. Or a committed Jewish person and the heart of your local community…and all underpinned by the tolerance of our established, Christian church,” Sunak said.
“But I fear that our great achievement in building the world’s most successful multi-ethnic, multi faith democracy is being deliberately undermined,” he said.
Sunak remarked that following the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, numerous groups have sought to exploit the conflict to promote a divisive and hateful ideological agenda. As a result, there have been instances where “hostile groups” have taken control of UK streets. “Islamist extremists and far rights groups are spreading a poison, that poison is extremism,” he stated.
He additionally emphasized that while individuals have the right to march and protest, advocating for the “violent Jihad” is not permissible. “I respect that the police have a tough job in policing the protests we have seen and that they are operationally independent. But we must draw a line. Yes, you can march and protest with passion…You can demand the protection of civilian life…but no, you cannot call for violent Jihad,” Sunak said.
He also referenced the directive issued by Home Secretary James Cleverly, stating that foreign nationals residing in the UK on visas who engage in “spewing hate during protests or attempting to intimidate people” will have their right to remain in the country revoked.
“I want to speak directly to those who choose to continue to protest: Don’t let the extremists hijack your marches. You have a chance in the coming weeks to show that you can protest decently, peacefully and with empathy for your fellow citizens,” Sunak further said.
