19th May 2026

San Diego mosque murders and the chilling impact of anti-Muslim hatred

Muslim Women’s Network UK is horrified by the gun attack on a mosque in San Diego. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the three Muslims who were murdered, and to all those injured in this horrific attack. We stand in solidarity with the affected community during this time of grief and trauma.

This latest atrocity is yet another devastating reminder that anti-Muslim hatred has deadly consequences. In the UK, Mohammed Saleem was murdered in 2013 by a white supremacist, and in 2017 another far-right extremist deliberately drove into worshippers outside a mosque, killing Makram Ali. More recently, 60-year-old Thomas McKenna stockpiled guns and explosives and planned to target Muslim migrants, while 21-year-old Alfie Coleman plotted a rifle attack on a mosque. There have also been attempted axe attacks against Muslims, as well as multiple incidents involving individuals trying to run Muslims over with vehicles. Muslims are being targeted simply because of their faith, their visibility, and their existence. However, anti-Muslim hatred continues to be minimised by the media and politicians.

MWNUK CEO Baroness Shaista Gohir said: “While we welcome Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s comments condemning the San Diego mosque attack, words alone are not enough. Muslims in the UK continue to feel unseen, unheard, and unsafe, as there has been little meaningful solidarity from the government in response to the rising tide of anti-Muslim hatred. For example, there was an absence of clear condemnation by government ministers of the openly anti-Muslim rhetoric and hostility displayed at the Tommy Robinson rally on 16 May 2026. Such silence is contributing to the normalisation of anti-Muslim hatred, emboldening extremists, and fostering an environment in which violence against Muslims becomes more likely.”

We call on the Government to move beyond statements and take meaningful action including outreach to Muslims across the country. Those who spread and profit from hate must be held accountable. There are growing concerns that wealthy individuals and organisations are funding hate preachers to spread disinformation about Muslims and fuel hatred against them. At the same time, social media platforms continue to allow anti-Muslim hatred to flourish, while algorithms often amplify and reward inflammatory and hateful content.

Muslims should not have to wait for another tragedy before their fears are taken seriously.

Anti-Muslim hostility in any setting can be reported to the Muslim Safety Net Helpline (a project by the Muslim Women’s Network UK) on 0303 330 0288 and WhatsApp / Text 07311 876 378 and online https://www.muslimsafetynet.org.uk/report

ENDS

Media enquiries can be directed to: contact@mwnuk.co.uk or 0121 2369000