A London protest against immigration policies turned violent after Elon Musk’s incendiary speech urged citizens to “fight back or die.”

At a Glance

• Over 100,000 protesters joined the far-right “Unite the Kingdom” march in London.
• Elon Musk called for the dissolution of Parliament and warned “violence is coming.”
• Police reported 26 officers injured and 25 arrests after intense clashes.
• UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned Musk’s remarks as “dangerous.”
• The protest reignited fierce immigration policy debate across Europe.

A City Under Siege

Central London saw its largest far-right demonstration in decades on Saturday. Protesters poured into Trafalgar Square under the “Unite the Kingdom” banner. Organizers included Tommy Robinson and several anti-migrant groups.

Estimates placed the crowd at over 100,000. Counter-protesters, including “Stand Up to Racism,” drew around 5,000 people. Police in riot gear erected barriers to separate the two factions, but physical clashes broke out by early afternoon.

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Flares, bottles, and stones flew across police lines. At least 26 officers suffered injuries, some requiring hospital care. Police made 25 arrests amid scenes of pushing, shouting, and street melees.

Musk Lights the Fuse

Elon Musk joined the rally via live video feed, taking the stage on a massive screen. His message was blunt: “You either fight back or you die.” He also called for the immediate dissolution of the UK Parliament.

The speech drew roars from the crowd but set off alarms in Westminster. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Musk’s remarks “reckless and inflammatory.” Critics accused Musk of inciting violence and meddling in British politics.

Musk’s defenders claimed he was expressing frustration at what they see as elite failure. The tech magnate has grown increasingly vocal about immigration and government accountability in recent months.

Fallout Spreads Across Europe

The protest has already reshaped debate across Europe. In France and Germany, right-wing parties cited the event as proof of rising resistance to open-border policies. In Brussels, EU officials held emergency briefings to monitor developments.

Within the UK, calls have emerged to scrutinize Musk’s contracts and business interests. So far, Downing Street has resisted pressure to pursue legal or diplomatic actions. But the shockwaves are unlikely to fade soon.

What began as a protest has turned into a geopolitical flashpoint. Musk’s involvement—calculated or careless—ensured global focus and forced every side to take a position.

Sources

Reuters
Associated Press
The Guardian