The deputy leader of the Green Party, Mothin Ali, has called for an apology from Labour leader Keir Starmer after he supported false claims that Ali protested in favor of the Iranian regime, resulting in a wave of death threats against him. Ali stated he is feeling increasingly fearful, noting that the racist threats have escalated to a level where he feels it could cost him his life.
In a statement to the press, Ali shared that he received multiple threatening messages following his attendance at an anti-war demonstration in Parliament Square, which was inaccurately described by some media outlets, including GB News, as a rally supporting Iran's government. He reported receiving messages that included chilling warnings such as, "we know where to find you" and "pack your bags before it's too late." Ali emphasized, "It could cost me my life, this kind of story." He insists that he participated in the demonstration to advocate against what he describes as illegal military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran. Originally reported by The Guardian.
Starmer's Controversial Comments in Parliament
During a session in the House of Commons, Starmer made remarks that appeared to endorse the misleading narrative about Ali's actions. Responding to a question from Conservative MP Alec Shelbrooke, Starmer expressed shock at Ali's involvement in the protest. He stated, "I think we were all shocked by the actions of the deputy leader of the Green party - although perhaps not surprised, given that party's recent turn of direction." Shelbrooke accused Ali of protesting in support of the Iranian regime, alleging that the Green Party has attracted individuals expelled from Labour for their views. Starmer's comments, which are protected under parliamentary privilege, have drawn criticism for their lack of evidence and perceived defamatory nature.
In defense of Ali, MP Ellie Chowns articulated her disapproval of Shelbrooke's accusations, stating that Ali attended the demonstration to uphold his principles of anti-war activism and support for democracy. Chowns reiterated that Ali's actions were in alignment with the protest's intent, which was to oppose military aggression.
Background on the Anti-War Protest
The anti-war demonstration on Saturday was organized by the Campaign Against Sanctions, Military and Imperial Interventions (CASMII), alongside the Stop the War Coalition and the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. Prof. Abbas Edalat, founder of CASMII, clarified that the event was focused on opposing U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran, contradicting media claims that it was a pro-regime rally. Edalat stated, "It was a rally against the US and Israeli attack, now supported by the UK government, against Iran," highlighting the protest's central theme against what they termed illegal military actions.
While some placards at the demonstration referenced the Iranian leadership, the majority of attendees displayed anti-war messages, emphasizing their opposition to foreign military interventions. Protesters were heard chanting, "Labour party, war party," indicating their disapproval of the Labour government's stance on military involvement. The event attracted a diverse crowd, with various groups represented, including the Women of Colour section of Global Women's Strike and Jewish Network for Palestine, marking a coalition of voices against warfare.
Ali's Personal Struggles with Threats
Mothin Ali has faced intense scrutiny and hostility since his election to Leeds City Council in 2024, particularly following his remarks at a public meeting where he concluded his speech with "Allahu Akbar." His political activism has made him a target for far-right groups, who have spread falsehoods about his involvement in local unrest. Ali recounted a recent incident where he was physically threatened while leaving a tube station, revealing the toll this harassment has taken on his mental well-being. "I got my phone up to try and record him, but I couldn't press the record button because my hand was shaking," he recalled, highlighting the fear that permeates his daily life.
Ali expressed his frustration with Starmer's comments, suggesting they reflect a desperate attempt to undermine the Green Party following their recent electoral success, particularly after Hannah Spencer won a seat to become the party's fifth MP in Gorton and Denton. He conveyed the broader impact of these threats, stating, "It doesn't just affect me, it affects my family, it affects everyone's campaigns I'm supposed to be working on." With rising tensions and threats against him, Ali remains committed to his anti-war activism while navigating a climate of fear.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.