U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks at the United Nations are sparking controversy after he falsely claimed that London “wants to go to Sharia law” under its mayor, Sadiq Khan. The comments, made during a speech on global security, have drawn sharp criticism from British officials, Muslim groups, and human rights advocates.
False Claim About London Mayor
During his address, Trump said, “I look at London where you have a terrible mayor… Now they want to go to Sharia law.” There is no evidence to support this claim. London Mayor Sadiq Khan, a member of the Labour Party, is considered a politically moderate figure and has never proposed implementing Sharia law in the city.
Fact-checkers quickly flagged the statement as false, noting that Sharia law has no place in London’s legal system and that Khan has repeatedly defended secular governance and religious tolerance.
Islamophobia Concerns
Critics accused Trump of spreading Islamophobic propaganda and stoking anti-Muslim sentiment. “These remarks are not only inaccurate but dangerous,” said a spokesperson for a UK-based Muslim advocacy organization. “They reinforce harmful stereotypes and undermine efforts to build understanding between communities.”
Several British lawmakers also condemned the comments. “The mayor of London has never advocated for Sharia law. These falsehoods are an attack on our democratic values,” tweeted one Member of Parliament.
Trump at the UN:
“I look at London where you have a terrible mayor… Now they want to go to Sharia law.”
This is entirely false. London Mayor Sadiq Khan is politically moderate and has never ever called for Sharia law.
This is Islamophobic propaghanda and bigotry. pic.twitter.com/j5ZKkJ2uFA
— Adam Schwarz (@AdamJSchwarz) September 23, 2025
UN Speech Under Scrutiny
Trump’s address at the UN was meant to outline his foreign policy priorities and critique what he described as “soft policies” on immigration and terrorism. Instead, much of the reaction focused on his false statement about London and his characterization of Muslim communities in Europe.
Read more: UN Delegations Walk Out During Netanyahu’s Speech Over Gaza
The incident is trending on social media under hashtags such as #UNGA, #Trump, and #Islamophobia. Many users are sharing fact checks and video clips of Khan’s public record to counter the misinformation.
Response From Sadiq Khan
Mayor Sadiq Khan did not respond immediately to Trump’s comments from the UN stage. However, in previous interviews, Khan has said he believes Trump “has a history of amplifying anti-Muslim rhetoric” and called for politicians to “use their platforms responsibly.”
Analysts say the exchange could further strain the already tense relationship between Trump and Khan. The two have traded public criticisms in the past, particularly over issues of immigration and terrorism.
Broader Impact
Observers warn that high-profile false statements about Muslim leaders or communities can have real-world consequences, including increased harassment and discrimination. “This is exactly how Islamophobic narratives gain traction,” said a UK-based academic who studies hate speech.
The controversy underscores the sensitivity of using religious or cultural references in political speeches, particularly at international forums like the UN where global audiences expect accuracy and diplomacy.
Trump has not retracted or corrected the statement as of Wednesday afternoon.
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