London witnessed one of its largest protests in recent years as over 1.1 lakh people rallied under right-wing activist Tommy Robinson against rising immigration. The demonstration, marked by clashes with police, drew global attention after billionaire Elon Musk warned that uncontrolled immigration poses a threat to Britain’s cultural identity.
Elon Musk’s Warning
Tesla CEO Elon Musk participated in the rally via video link, criticizing the British government. He stated:
“The beauty of Britain is in danger. Uncontrolled immigration has started changing Britain rapidly.”
Musk’s comments sparked widespread debate, adding international weight to the ongoing immigration controversy in the UK.
Clashes Between Protesters and Police
According to the Metropolitan Police, the rally turned tense when some Robinson supporters clashed with officers. Police in riot gear had to intervene after officers were punched, kicked, and targeted with objects. At least nine arrests were made, while more individuals have been identified for inciting violence.
Scale of the Protests
Authorities reported around 110,000 attendees at Robinson’s “Unite the Kingdom” rally. In contrast, nearly 5,000 counter-protesters joined the “March Against Fascism” demonstration organized by Stand Up to Racism.
Tommy Robinson, born Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is the founder of the nationalist and anti-Islam English Defence League, and remains one of Britain’s most influential right-wing leaders.
Rally Focused on Immigration
Although advertised as a campaign for “freedom of expression,” most speeches criticized immigration. French far-right leader Eric Zemmour claimed:
“People from the south and those of Muslim culture are replacing Europeans. This is a reverse form of colonialism.”
Robinson further alleged that migrants are receiving “more rights than the British public” in courts, fueling anger among his supporters.
Nationwide Immigration Debate
The rally comes amid heated national discussions over migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats. This issue has sharply divided the UK, with critics accusing Prime Minister Keir Starmer of failing to control immigration.
Tensions in the Capital
During the march, supporters carried British, American, and Israeli flags, wore pro-Trump caps, and chanted slogans against PM Starmer. While much of the protest was peaceful, some Robinson supporters threw bottles and attacked police officers, leading to skirmishes.
Despite the violence, Robinson and several European far-right leaders continued their speeches, warning of the dangers of immigration and urging tighter border control.
