Investigation into Threats Against Green Party Deputy Leader Mothin Ali

West Yorkshire Police are investigating multiple death threats directed at Mothin Ali, the deputy leader of the Green Party, after he was accused of attending a rally in support of the Iranian regime. The controversy arose following statements made in Parliament by Conservative MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke, who claimed Ali was "protesting in support" of Iran's leadership during an anti-war demonstration organized by the Stop the War Coalition. Ali, a Leeds councillor, has vehemently denied these allegations, asserting that he attended the event to protest against the recent U.S. and Israeli military actions in Iran.

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On February 28, 2026, the U.S. and Israel launched strikes targeting Iran's military infrastructure, which coincided with the rally Ali attended. He described the event as an anti-war demonstration, organized by reputable groups including the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) and Stop the War Coalition. Ali emphasized that while there were a few Iranian flags present, the majority of the signs were anti-war in nature, and he was there to voice opposition to military aggression.

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In the House of Commons, Sir Alec Shelbrooke expressed his dismay at Ali's presence at the rally, stating he was "appalled" but not shocked. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the actions of Ali were not surprising given the Green Party's recent direction. In response, Ali demanded an apology from Starmer, stating that the accusations have led to a significant increase in threats against him, including messages that suggested he could be killed.

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Ali's critics, including Shelbrooke and Starmer, have faced backlash for their comments. Green Party leader Zack Polanski accused them of "blatant Islamophobia" and of smearing Ali's reputation. MP Ellie Chowns defended Ali in Parliament, asserting that he did not protest in support of Iran's leadership. Ali himself has expressed concern that the media's portrayal of him as a "proud visible Muslim" has contributed to the threats he faces.

The Guardian

While Ali insists the rally was anti-war, some reports, particularly from GB News, mischaracterized it as supportive of the Iranian regime. Prof. Abbas Edalat, founder of the Campaign Against Sanctions, Military and Imperial Interventions, clarified that the rally was against the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, not in support of its government. This discrepancy highlights the polarized narratives surrounding the event.

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• “It could cost me my life, this kind of story,” — Mothin Ali, Green Party Deputy Leader

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• “It was a rally against the US and Israeli attack, now supported by the UK government, against Iran,” — Prof. Abbas Edalat, Campaign Against Sanctions, Military and Imperial Interventions

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The investigation by West Yorkshire Police into the threats against Ali is ongoing. Ali has reported over 20 threats, including graphic messages, and has expressed concern for his safety and that of his family. As the situation develops, the political ramifications for the Green Party and its leadership may also unfold, particularly in light of recent electoral successes against Labour.

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