London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan reacted strongly to comments made by President Trump, who suggested that London is moving towards “sharia law” under Khan’s leadership. Trump, speaking at the U.N. General Assembly, criticized Khan as a “terrible mayor” and made claims that did not align with reality. His remarks tapped into ongoing far-right narratives about Khan, who is the first Muslim mayor of London. There is no official push for sharia law in the city, and the mayor’s office firmly rejected any implication of this, noting that London remains one of the safest major cities.
Khan has received defense from various British politicians, including members of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government. Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized that Khan is committed to improving public services rather than imposing any religious laws. This recent exchange continues a long-standing tension between Khan and Trump, dating back to 2015 when Khan condemned Trump’s call for a full ban on Muslim immigration to the U.S.
Trump has frequently criticized crime rates in London during his public speeches, claiming they have soared under Khan. However, recent data shows that while overall crime in London has risen by 31.5% in the last decade, the homicide rate has remained lower than in several major U.S. cities. In 2024, London’s homicide rate was 11.8 per million people, which is significantly lower than in cities like Washington, D.C.
The conversation around immigration and crime continues to be a divisive issue in many western countries. Recent surveys indicate that public sentiment towards immigration remains mixed, with concerns about crime often surfacing in discussions. A study by the Pew Research Center found that significant portions of the population across Europe express worries about immigration’s impact on national security and culture.
Through social media, reactions to these discussions can spread rapidly. Hashtags and trends often arise, reflecting public opinions on both leaders. Khan’s supporters use these platforms to counteract misinformation and emphasize diversity and safety in London.
Overall, the clash between Trump and Khan highlights a broader debate about governance, immigration, and public safety. As these issues continue to unfold, the dialogue will likely influence political landscapes on both sides of the Atlantic.
For more insights, see the UK Office for National Statistics.
