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Starmer Regrets Support for Activist Amid Antisemitism Scandal

1/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer expressed regret for his previous support of Egyptian activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah after antisemitic posts resurfaced, calling the comments abhorrent.
Starmer said the government failed to inform him about Abd El-Fattah's views, and Whitehall reportedly treated the case as a running joke.
Alaa Abd El-Fattah returned to the UK on Boxing Day.
Conservative leaders urged revocation of his citizenship.
Abd El-Fattah apologized, saying he was shocked.

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Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer expressed regret for his previous support of Egyptian activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah after antisemitic posts resurfaced, calling the comments abhorrent.
Starmer said the government failed to inform him about Abd El-Fattah's views, and Whitehall reportedly treated the case as a running joke.
Alaa Abd El-Fattah returned to the UK on Boxing Day.
Conservative leaders urged revocation of his citizenship.
Abd El-Fattah apologized, saying he was shocked.