Emergency Cobra Meeting Called by UK Prime Minister in Response to Far-Right Rioting
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, will chair an emergency “Cobra” meeting on Monday to address the government’s reaction to ongoing far-right rioting across the country following a tragic incident in Southport, England.
Last week, violence erupted in various British towns and cities after three young girls were killed in a knife attack. Axel Rudakubana, a 17-year-old boy born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to the incident.
Over the weekend, more than 150 individuals were arrested as anti-immigration protesters clashed with law enforcement, vandalized properties, and targeted mosques with racist slurs. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the acts as “disgraceful scenes” and promised accountability for those involved.
During the riots, far-right activists targeted hotels housing asylum-seekers, resulting in confrontations with the police. Prime Minister Starmer denounced the actions as “far-right thuggery” and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
As tensions escalate, the Cobra meeting will gather key officials to strategize and address the crisis. This emergency response is crucial in ensuring safety and restoring order in the face of rising social unrest.