British Prime Minister Keir Starmer firmly dismissed recent comments by US President Donald Trump, who suggested that London could be subject to the introduction of Islamic Sharia law. Speaking in an interview, Starmer described Trump’s remarks as “nonsense” and strongly defended London Mayor Sadiq Khan, calling him “a very good man.”
Trump made the controversial statement earlier in the week during a speech at the United Nations General Assembly. In his address, he criticized European immigration policies and targeted the UK capital. Trump claimed that “now they want to go to Sharia law,” while also labeling Khan as a “terrible, terrible mayor.”
Starmer Defends Khan and Rejects Trump’s Assertion
In response, Starmer underlined that the idea of Sharia law being imposed in London has no basis in reality. He clarified that while there are certain issues on which he and Trump hold different views, this was one point where he was “very clear.”
Sadiq Khan, a senior figure in the Labour Party led by Starmer, has been mayor of London since 2016. He became the first Muslim to hold the position and has since won two consecutive re-elections. Khan now holds the largest personal mandate of any elected politician in the United Kingdom, a fact often highlighted by his supporters.
Trump and Khan’s Longstanding Feud
Trump’s latest comments reignited his long-running feud with Khan. Their disagreements date back to 2017, when the London mayor criticized Trump’s proposed travel ban on several Muslim-majority countries. Since then, the two leaders have often exchanged sharp words.
This week, Khan responded to Trump’s new remarks by accusing him of being “racist, sexist, misogynistic and Islamophobic.” He further pointed to data showing that a record number of Americans are choosing to settle in the United Kingdom, suggesting that the country continues to attract people despite Trump’s rhetoric.
US-UK Relations Remain Strong Despite Tensions
Interestingly, Trump’s comments came only days after he had praised the special relationship between Washington and London during a high-profile state visit. His second official visit to Britain featured royal ceremonies, including a carriage procession and a formal banquet.
Despite their contrasting styles and political ideologies, Starmer and Trump have maintained a working relationship. Starmer, who describes himself as a socialist and technocrat, has sought to balance his domestic political priorities with the need to maintain close ties with Washington. Trump, on the other hand, has positioned himself as an outspoken and unpredictable Republican leader who does not hesitate to challenge foreign counterparts.
A Debate That Resonates Beyond Politics
The dispute over Sharia law claims underscores broader debates surrounding immigration, integration, and identity in Western societies. While Trump’s rhetoric has often focused on cultural threats, Starmer’s rejection emphasized unity and trust in the democratic framework of Britain.
As the public exchanges between Trump and Khan continue, the controversy highlights the delicate balance world leaders must strike between personal disagreements and the broader diplomatic relationship between their nations.
