British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rejected US President Donald Trump’s claim that Islamic Sharia law is being introduced in London. Speaking to ITV London on Thursday, Starmer called the assertion “nonsense” and voiced firm support for London Mayor Sadiq Khan.
Trump had delivered remarks at the United Nations earlier this week, sharply criticising immigration in Europe. He singled out London, claiming “now they want to go to Sharia law” and described Khan as a “terrible, terrible mayor.”
Starmer Defends Khan
In response, Starmer was direct: “The idea of the introduction of Sharia law is nonsense and Sadiq Khan is a very good man.” While acknowledging that he rarely takes issue with Trump, the prime minister said he was very clear on this matter.
Khan, a Labour Party leader, became the first Muslim mayor of London in 2016. Since then, he has been re-elected twice, securing the largest personal mandate of any British politician.
A Long-Running Feud
The exchange is the latest episode in a feud between Trump and Khan that began in 2017. At that time, Khan criticised Trump for proposing a travel ban on several Muslim-majority nations. Since then, the two have regularly traded sharp remarks.
Trump’s latest criticism also followed his second state visit to Britain just last week, where he praised the strength of the US-UK alliance. That visit featured rare royal ceremonies, including a carriage procession and a white-tie banquet.
Khan Responds Firmly
Khan responded by accusing Trump of being “racist, sexist, misogynistic and Islamophobic.” He also noted that, despite Trump’s rhetoric, a record number of Americans are choosing to settle in Britain.
Starmer Balances Relations
Although Starmer and Trump come from opposite political traditions, both have maintained a working relationship. Starmer, a centre-left technocrat, has often emphasised the importance of the transatlantic alliance. Trump, known for his unconventional style, has also acknowledged close US-British ties.
Starmer’s defence of Khan highlights both his loyalty to party colleagues and his readiness to push back against controversial statements from allies.
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