MP Robert Jenrick has faced backlash after suggesting protesters who chant “Allahu Akbar” should be arrested, sparking accusations of Islamophobia. During an interview with Sky News, Jenrick criticized the handling of protests by British police, particularly focusing on pro-Palestine demonstrations and the recent far-right riots.
His comments drew criticism from his Conservative peer Sayeeda Warsi, Labour MPs, British Muslim bodies, and members of the House of Lords, who accused him of fueling racial tensions and showing ignorance towards Islam. Labour MP Naz Shah called Jenrick’s remarks “textbook Islamophobia,” while Lord Nazir Ahmed urged him to apologize for his comments.
The Muslim Council of Britain expressed disappointment in Jenrick’s lack of leadership and called on him to retract his comments. Tell Mama UK also weighed in, highlighting the disconnect in understanding the sensitivities around British Muslims.
Jenrick’s remarks add to the ongoing issue of Islamophobia within the Conservative Party, which has faced criticism for not adopting a formal definition of Islamophobia despite concerns about anti-Muslim sentiment within its ranks.