Article
Clashes Erupt as Over 100,000 Join Anti-Immigration Rally Led by Tommy Robinson in Central London
Summary
Over 110,000 joined Tommy Robinson’s anti-immigration rally in London, sparking violent clashes with police and counter-protesters. Elon Musk’s speech drew widespread condemnation.
A massive September 13, 2025, protest in central London drew over 110,000 demonstrators who marched against immigration in what was one of the largest far-right protests in British history. Labeled "Unite the Kingdom," the rally was led by divisive activist Tommy Robinson, who had international guests from across the world of prominent far-right activists and a video message from Elon Musk calling for a "dissolution of parliament" and a "change of government."
The protest then escalated into violent clashes with police officers, resulting in 26 officers being injured—four seriously—and 25 being arrested. The authorities deployed over 1,600 officers to control stand-offs between Robinson's supporters and a counter-protest of around 5,000 anti-racism protesters.
Robinson described the rally as a "cultural revolution," describing it as a defense of free speech and British tradition. Individuals held Union Jacks, MAGA hats, and signs that said anti-migrant graffiti. Musk's words were roundly condemned by political leaders, who called them "inappropriate" and "disgusting."
Counter-protesters, including politicians and activists, marched with signs that said "Refugees Welcome" and "Smash the Far Right," showing solidarity with asylum seekers and condemning Robinson's rhetoric. The event highlighted mounting polarization in British society, with analysts sounding warnings over mainstreaming far-right views.
Despite its size, the rally was less populous than previous pro-Palestinian rallies that had drawn in excess of 300,000 individuals. The protest has generated national controversy surrounding free speech, immigration policy, and extremist movements' impact on the public sphere.