UK Imam Suspended After Pro-Israel Remarks in Interview with Tommy Robinson
- Mahamunimodi Team
- Oct 30
- 3 min read
A UK-based Muslim cleric, Imam Umayr Mulla, has been suspended from his duties at Masjid Khazra in Nottingham following remarks made during a recent interview in Jerusalem with controversial British activist Tommy Robinson. The comments, which appeared to show sympathy toward Israel and its historical legitimacy, have sparked strong backlash from sections of the Muslim community in the UK and abroad.
During the interview, Mulla stated that he had “no issue with Israel,” emphasizing a peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.
“I have no issue with Israel, as long as people are living in peace. I believe both sides should have their own countries,” Mulla said. “The Palestinians should have their own safe space where they can live freely without oppression or injustice. I think this is the solution for peace in the Middle East.”
His remarks were met with outrage online, particularly because of the sensitive nature of the Israel–Palestine conflict and Robinson’s reputation for anti-Islam rhetoric. Critics accused the imam of showing insensitivity toward Palestinian suffering and undermining the collective stance of Muslim communities advocating for Palestinian rights.
Mosque Condemns Statement, Issues Apology
In response, Masjid Khazra swiftly distanced itself from the imam’s comments, releasing a formal statement apologizing for what it described as “deeply offensive” and “inconsistent” views with the mosque’s principles.
“Our institute is founded on a commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion,” the mosque’s statement read. “We appreciate and respect all parts of the Muslim community and the wider community we serve, and we are dedicated to maintaining a respectful and supportive environment for pupils, staff, and families.”
The statement further stressed that Mulla’s comments were his personal opinions and not reflective of the mosque’s official position.
Context of the Interview
In his discussion with Robinson, Mulla attempted to contextualize Muslim–non-Muslim relations in the Middle East by referencing historical Islamic governance.
He claimed that during Muslim rule, all faiths coexisted peacefully under a system that required non-Muslims to pay the Jizya tax—a historical levy on non-Muslims under Islamic empires.
“It’s like protection money,” Mulla said. “It’s no different from the taxes we pay in Britain.”
The comparison drew further criticism, with many interpreting it as an oversimplification of complex historical systems and a poor analogy for modern democratic taxation.
Imam Issues Public Apology
After widespread condemnation, Imam Mulla released a public apology expressing deep regret for his comments.
“I deeply regret the hurt my remarks have caused to the Kashmiri and Pakistani communities, to Palestinians, to my employers, family, friends, and to anyone beyond who was offended directly and indirectly,” he wrote. “My reference to any community was totally unacceptable. I retract it unequivocally and sincerely ask for forgiveness from those I have wronged. I am committed to learning from this.”
His statement aimed to ease tensions and clarify that his intention was to promote peace, not division. However, the incident has reignited debate within the UK’s Muslim community about freedom of expression, representation, and the political sensitivities surrounding Israel and Palestine.
Broader Implications
The controversy highlights the fine line religious figures walk when commenting on global political conflicts, particularly those tied to faith and identity. Mulla’s suspension underscores how public figures within religious institutions are expected to maintain strict alignment with community sentiment on issues as charged as the Middle East conflict.
While some observers have called for understanding and dialogue rather than punishment, others argue that leaders in faith institutions must be cautious about the platforms they engage with and the narratives they support.
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