Elon Musk has entered into a public conflict with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the social media platform X, where the billionaire criticizes British authorities for their handling of violent right-wing riots against Muslims and immigrants. The riots, which have occurred in the UK for a week, have resulted in numerous arrests and injured many police officers.
The dispute between Musk and British authorities intensified after 10 Downing Street (the official residence of the Prime Minister) criticized Musk’s earlier statements in which he claimed that “civil war is inevitable” in the UK in response to the increasing turmoil. The Prime Minister’s spokesperson stated that Musk “does not speak for the UK” and described the violent actions as “organized, violent banditry” that has no place in the country.
However, Musk has not been deterred by the government’s criticism and has repeatedly expressed support for far-right extremist groups. He has shared content that attacks the authorities for arresting individuals involved in the riots and sent tweets questioning why not all communities receive the same protection as others.
The latest outbreak of violence was triggered by misinformation campaigns claiming that a 17-year-old behind a massacre in Southport was a Muslim immigrant. This claim has been debunked, revealing that the accused was born in the UK. According to experts, the misinformation spread on social media has been a key factor in the violent unrest.
Professor Lee McGowan from Queen’s University in Belfast points out that such influencers contribute to channeling hate and inciting violence, putting both the police and society at risk. In parallel, Sir Mark Rowley, the British police commissioner, rejected Musk’s claims of police bias and emphasized their independence under the law.
As a result of the unrest, British authorities have arrested over 400 individuals and imposed strict measures against those inciting violence online. Musk has expressed many of the same views in the United States, where he has supported controversial politicians such as Donald Trump, who is known for his anti-immigration rhetoric.
While fears that misinformation could worsen the situation drive parts of British society to protest against racism and violence, there are no clear solutions in sight. Authorities are now considering prosecuting some of the arrested individuals on terrorism-related charges.
The heated debate between Musk and Starmer raises questions about freedom of speech and accountability on social media, as well as how authorities can navigate the complex landscape of misinformation that can lead to violence and hate.