Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing intense criticism after expressing his 'delight' at the return to Britain of Egyptian activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah, who previously posted inflammatory messages online advocating violence against 'Zionists' and the police. Political opponents and campaign groups have condemned the Prime Minister's public welcome, questioning whether he was aware of El-Fattah's past statements, which included calls for violence and denial of the Holocaust.

El-Fattah, a prominent figure during the Arab Spring, spent years in Egyptian prisons for his pro-democracy activism and was recently granted a pardon before returning to the United Kingdom. While his release was celebrated by government ministers, critics argue that the Prime Minister's endorsement sends a troubling message amid rising anti-Semitic incidents and tension within Jewish communities.

Calls have been made for the Prime Minister to withdraw his endorsement and clarify his position, as the controversy raises broader concerns about government vetting and the implications of public support for individuals with histories of incitement.