London Mayor Sadiq Khan has strongly criticized US President Donald Trump, labeling him “Islamophobic” and “racist” following Trump’s comments at the United Nations General Assembly.
Trump claimed that London, under Khan’s leadership, was moving towards implementing Sharia law, which Khan vehemently denies.
Khan, who has been London’s mayor since 2016, responded to Trump’s remarks by highlighting London’s success and diversity. “I think President Trump has shown he is racist, he is sexist, he is misogynistic, and he is Islamophobic,” Khan said. He added that he was “living rent-free” in Trump’s head and jokingly expressed hope that Trump wouldn’t send him an invoice for the mental space.
The controversy stems from Trump’s speech at the UN General Assembly, where he stated, “I look at London, where you have a terrible mayor, terrible, terrible mayor, and it’s been changed, it’s been so changed. Now they want to go to Sharia law. But you are in a different country, you can’t do that.” Khan dismissed Trump’s claims, emphasizing London’s global standing in culture, foreign investment, and sports.
Khan and Trump have a history of trading insults, dating back to 2016 when Trump proposed a travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries. Trump has previously called Khan a “stone cold loser” and challenged him to an IQ test. Despite their differences, Khan remains focused on promoting London’s achievements and defending its reputation. “I’m really proud that we are the greatest city in the world,” Khan said.
Government minister Pat McFadden dismissed Trump’s comments as a “misreading” of London. Labour MPs rallied in support of Khan, with some calling for the US ambassador to be summoned over Trump’s remarks. Khan’s comments come amid a long-standing feud with Trump, who has repeatedly attacked the mayor over immigration and carbon-reduction policies.
The mayor’s office has strongly defended London’s record, highlighting the city’s safety and welcoming nature. “London is the greatest city in the world, safer than major US cities, and we’re delighted to welcome the record number of US citizens moving here,” a spokesperson said. Khan’s defenders argue that Trump’s comments are part of a broader pattern of divisive rhetoric.