9 October, 2025
Web desk
Imam Qari Asim, co-chairman of the British Muslim Network, has called for unity and collective action against all forms of hatred in the UK. Speaking out after new government data revealed alarming figures on religious hate crimes, he said, “Whether it is Islamophobia, antisemitism or any form of bigotry, we must confront it together with unity and courage, not silence.”
According to the latest statistics for the year ending March 2025, 45% of all recorded religious hate crime offences targeted Muslims, while 29% were directed at Jewish people. The figures highlight the continued vulnerability of faith communities across the country amid growing social and political tensions.
However, when looking at the rate of hate crimes per population, Jewish people were disproportionately affected. The data shows there were 106 offences targeting Jewish people per 10,000 population, compared to 12 offences per 10,000 Muslims a stark reminder that smaller communities often face a higher risk of hate-related incidents.
Community leaders have urged the government to take stronger action against hate crimes and ensure better protection for all faith groups. Many, including Imam Qari Asim, stress that solidarity between communities is essential to counter the growing wave of intolerance and to build a safer, more inclusive Britain
