Controversial Praise for Ayatollah Khamenei at London Mosque

A preacher at the Mosque and Islamic Centre of Brent in Cricklewood, north London, has sparked controversy by praising the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's former supreme leader, as a defender of the oppressed. During a sermon following Khamenei's death, the imam described him as a "brave" figure who supported the Muslim community, particularly in Gaza. He stated, “When many were silent he stood up... it is obligatory upon us to pray for the ones who defend the ummah [global Muslim community].” The comments were made despite Khamenei's regime being responsible for the deaths of thousands of anti-government protesters and its support for militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.

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The remarks have drawn sharp criticism from various political figures. Defence Secretary John Healey remarked that “few people will mourn the Ayatollah’s death,” highlighting the regime's history of violence against its citizens and its role in sponsoring terrorism. Chris Philp, the Conservative shadow Home Secretary, condemned the praise as a "disgusting affront to British values," asserting that portraying Khamenei as a defender of the oppressed is a "grotesque distortion."

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This incident is not the first time the Mosque and Islamic Centre of Brent has faced scrutiny. In June 2022, the Charity Commission issued an official warning regarding "inflammatory and divisive" speeches made at the mosque, which included comments interpreted as encouraging support for Hamas. Sheikh Babikir Ahmed Babikir, a preacher at the mosque, previously claimed that any Muslim opposing Hamas was a "hypocrite." The Charity Commission has expressed concerns about the mosque's governance and its ability to manage risks associated with its speakers.

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The Charity Commission is currently assessing the recent comments about Khamenei to determine if regulatory action is warranted. The commission has the authority to conduct statutory inquiries into charities and can impose measures such as freezing bank accounts or appointing/removing trustees. The mosque has stated that comments made during sermons reflect the personal views of the speakers and do not represent official positions of the mosque. It emphasized its commitment to legal obligations and community cohesion, asserting that it does not endorse violence or extremism.

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The praise for Ayatollah Khamenei by a preacher at the Mosque and Islamic Centre of Brent has ignited a debate about the mosque's role in promoting controversial views and the implications for community relations in the UK. As the Charity Commission continues its monitoring, the mosque's future engagement with regulatory bodies remains a critical aspect of this evolving situation.

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