Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing intense criticism after publicly celebrating the return to Britain of a political activist with a history of making inflammatory statements, including anti-Semitic remarks and calls for violence. This move comes just days after Sir Keir pledged to eradicate anti-Semitism in the UK, leading to accusations of hypocrisy and poor judgement at the highest level of government.
A Controversial Welcome and a Contradictory Message
Earlier this week, the Prime Minister took to social media platform X to express his personal delight at the arrival of Egyptian-British activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah. Sir Keir stated the case had been a 'top priority' for his new administration and extended thanks to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for granting a pardon. This was framed not as quiet diplomacy but as a very public and personal welcome from the UK's leader.
However, this endorsement has ignited a firestorm, as El-Fattah's documented public record includes statements that directly contradict the Prime Minister's recent vow to tackle anti-Semitism. The activist has, in his own social media posts, endorsed violence against specific groups and expressed hateful views.
The Disturbing Record of the Celebrated Activist
Scrutiny of El-Fattah's online history reveals a pattern of extremist rhetoric. He has been reported as:
- Endorsing the killing of 'Zionists' and urging further violence.
- Using chilling language to call for Israelis to be killed.
- Appearing to deny the occurrence of the Holocaust.
His advocacy for violence is not confined to the Middle East conflict. In July 2011, he wrote that 'police are not human', that they 'don't have rights', and that 'we should just kill them all'. The following month, in August 2011, amid disorder on London's streets, he urged people to 'go burn the city or Downing Street or hunt police'. He has also made derogatory comments about white people and referred to the British public as 'dogs'.
Grotesque Signals and a Two-Tier Justice System
Critics argue that at a time when anti-Semitic incidents are surging and Jewish communities feel under threat, the Prime Minister's jubilant welcome for a man with this record sends a grotesque signal. It stands in stark contrast to the government's stated mission to stand with victims of hatred.
Furthermore, it highlights what many see as a two-tier justice system. Individuals have faced arrest and even prison sentences for posting far less incendiary material online. Yet, the Prime Minister has chosen to personally champion someone who has advocated violence against police, Jews, and the seat of government itself.
Demands for Explanation and Retraction
The controversy leaves only two plausible explanations, both damaging: either Sir Keir was unaware of the statements he was endorsing—a staggering level of negligence—or he knew and proceeded regardless, which would be seen as worse.
While no one disputes the relief of a family reunited, the Prime Minister's role demands higher scrutiny. As the nation's leader, his words carry immense weight and represent the UK. There are now growing calls for him to withdraw his unalloyed endorsement, unequivocally condemn El-Fattah's past statements, and explain in detail why this case became a top government priority.
If Sir Keir Starmer is serious about his pledge to eradicate anti-Semitism, critics state, he must start by not appearing to cheer on its proponents with open arms at the arrivals lounge.
