Muslim Charities Forum Condemns Acts of Anti-Muslim Terrorism in Edinburgh  

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is deeply alarmed by the recent acts of terrorism targeting Muslims in Edinburgh. It is especially disturbing that the victims were singled out because of their faith, with the violent spree beginning near a mosque in the west of the city. The events have left Muslims in Scotland and across the UK feeling fearful for the safety of themselves, their families, and their communities. 

These attacks follow closely after the racist, anti-Muslim pogroms in Belfast, where communities were similarly targeted because of their identity. These terrorist incidents are not isolated; they form part of a wider and escalating pattern of hatred and violence directed at Muslims. People are being made to feel unsafe because of who they are, posing a profound threat to their security and wellbeing. 

Such horrific acts do not occur in a vacuum. They are fuelled by inflammatory rhetoric from politicians, sections of the media, and other provocative voices who seek to sow division and hostility. Words have consequences by shaping hateful attitudes and can inspire violent actions that erode the cohesion and fabric of our society. 

Fadi Itani OBE, CEO of Muslim Charities Forum, said: 

“The lack of government action in response is deeply worrying. We must move beyond statements of condemnation and take concrete steps to safeguard all communities. This includes implementing the new definition of anti-Muslim hostility across public life, expanding comprehensive security funding for Muslim institutions, and developing a coordinated strategy for tackling far-right terrorism.” 

MCF urges Muslim and minority communities to remain vigilant and to report any instances of anti-Muslim hatred. We call on the government to take meaningful, sustained action to ensure the safety and security of all communities.