Twelve arrested over threat to Islamic event https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/l0058lhg/twelve-arrested-over-threat-to-islamic-event-in-suffolk
The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) thanked counter-terror police https://www.itv.com/news/anglia/2026-07-14/far-right-threat-facing-muslims-real-not-imagined-say-leaders
Statement from the Luton Council of Faiths
14 July 2026
Following yesterday's meeting of the Luton Council of Faiths, members express their deep concern following reports that twelve people have been arrested in connection with an alleged extreme right wing terrorism plot targeting the UK Ijtima, attended by thousands of Muslims from across the country, including many from Luton.
The possibility that people peacefully gathered for worship may have been the target of a terrorist attack is deeply disturbing. We commend Counter Terrorism Policing and all those involved whose swift action may have prevented a devastating loss of life.
The Luton Council of Faiths stands in full solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters. An attack or threat against one faith community is an attack on us all. Everyone should be able to worship and gather in safety, free from fear, hatred and violence.
These deeply concerning reports come at a time when anti Muslim hatred appears to be becoming increasingly visible. We are particularly troubled by the recent burning of a replica mosque on a bonfire in Northern Ireland, accompanied by anti Muslim messages, an act that sent a message of exclusion and intimidation to Muslim communities. Such incidents, together with hateful rhetoric in parts of public discourse, social media and sections of the media, contribute to a climate in which prejudice is normalised and extremists can feel emboldened. Words matter, and we all share a responsibility to challenge hatred before it escalates into violence.
We therefore call on political leaders, media organisations, online platforms and wider society to take collective responsibility for confronting anti Muslim hatred, as well as all forms of racism, extremism and religious hatred. Protecting communities requires more than security measures; it requires building understanding, promoting responsible public discourse and standing together against those who seek to divide us.
For more than 30 years, the Luton Council of Faiths has brought people together across faiths and communities. We remain committed to working with our partners to ensure that Luton continues to be a place where people of all faiths and none can live together in mutual respect, safety and peace.
Notes:
GRASSROOTS gave birth to Luton Council of Faiths (LCOF), and since LCoF registered as an independent charity, GRASSROOTS has been facilitating LCoF meetings, supporting LCoF activities, resourcing different faith leaders, and enabling different Church denominations to engage with Luton’s different faith communities.
Yesterday, it was the first time Strathmore Avenue Methodist Church hosted the LCoF meeting. It was hoped it will not be the last.
There were several concerns shared, views expressed and ideas shared at yesterday’s meeting of Luton’s different faith leaders, but following are the key challenges that were highlighted;
Rising Islamophobia, Anti-Semitism and racism
Social media misinformation and disinformation
The impact of high-profile national extremist incidents and narratives
Public fears arising from recent arrests and national security issues.
Increasing hostility on social media
Online misinformation targeting faith communities
Negative reactions to positive stories of inter-faith co-operation
It was agreed that there is a need for a
Greater contribution from public sector agencies in tackling mis/disinformation
Improved communication of positive community stories
Additional media and communications training for faith leaders
Members welcomed proactive communication and outreach from Bedfordshire Police. Bedfordshire Connected Home Page - Beds Connected was highlighted as a useful platform for community updates and engagement.
Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) Meeting held on 13th July 2026 at Strathmore Av Methodist Church