Starmer condemns anti-Muslim attacks in Scotland that leave five injured

Starmer condemns anti-Muslim attacks in Scotland that leave five injured
The man began attacking the window of a pizzeria on Leith Walk in Edinburgh, Scotland
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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said the violent attacks in Edinburgh, Scotland, on Friday, which left five men injured, were motivated by "anti-Muslim hatred".

Police said a 36-year-old man had been arrested in connection with a series of threats, robbery and vandalism incidents. Three of the five victims required hospital treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.

Reports said the attacks began near a mosque in the west of the city, where two men were injured.

"My thoughts are with those who are injured and I thank the police and the emergency services for their response," the prime minister said on X.

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Footage shared on social media appears to show a shirtless man carrying a large weapon, vandalising a petrol station and attacking the door of a pizza takeaway before being restrained by police.

Scottish counter-terrorism officers said they were investigating the incident.

Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton condemned the violence, saying: "I want to send a clear message of support to all our communities that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate in a Scotland which is at its best when we stand together."

First Minister John Swinney said he was "deeply concerned" by the incidents and that there was "no place for violence, racism or intolerance" in Scotland.

Growing fears for mosques in the UK

The attacks come as the Muslim Council of Britain recently published a new security and preparedness framework for mosques, trustees and volunteers, warning that places of worship and community centres face a growing threat from vandalism, intimidation and targeted hostility.

The organisation has advised mosques to carry out lockdown drills, strengthen ties with police and improve CCTV coverage in line with national guidance.

The incidents follow a recent spate of attacks targeting Muslim communities, including an attack on the home of an imam in Bolton, and heightened tensions following racist riots in Belfast.

Home Office figures published last October showed recorded hate crime in England and Wales had risen for the first time in three years, with increases in both racially and religiously motivated offences.

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