Mosque Arson Attack in East Sussex Investigated as Hate Crime Amid Rising Anti-Muslim Protests in the UK
British police are investigating a suspected arson attack on a mosque in southern England as a hate crime, following a disturbing rise in violence and hostility targeting Muslim and asylum-seeking communities across the United Kingdom.
The incident occurred late Saturday night in the quiet coastal town of Peacehaven, East Sussex, where flames engulfed the entrance of a mosque on Phyllis Avenue. According to Sussex Police, emergency services were called just before 10 p.m. (22:00 GMT) after reports of a fire at the religious site.
Authorities confirmed that the blaze damaged the front entrance of the mosque and a nearby vehicle. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but images shared on social media showed a burned-out car parked near the building’s charred entrance, sparking widespread outrage and concern.
Police released images of two masked men dressed in dark clothing and have appealed to the public for any information that could help identify the suspects involved.
Attack Described as “Shocking and Heartbreaking”
A volunteer mosque manager told CNN that two people were inside the building when two masked attackers tried to force open the door and poured petrol on the steps before setting it alight. The individuals inside managed to escape unharmed.
In a statement, the mosque’s management expressed deep sadness over the “shocking and hateful” incident.
“While this act caused damage to our building and vehicles, we are profoundly grateful that no one was hurt,” the statement read.
“This hateful act does not reflect the spirit of Peacehaven — a town known for its kindness, respect, and unity. We urge everyone to reject division and respond to hate with compassion and solidarity.”
The community’s message has since been widely shared online, with locals and faith leaders condemning the violence and offering support to those affected.
Police Increase Security Around Religious Sites
Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna said police are treating the incident as a hate-motivated attack and have strengthened patrols at mosques and other places of worship across Sussex.
“There is already an increased police presence at the scene,” Bohanna said.
“We are also conducting additional patrols to provide reassurance to communities and prevent further incidents. Sussex Police take a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime — there is no place for hate in our county.”
Authorities have urged anyone with information, CCTV footage, or dashcam recordings from the area to come forward as investigations continue.
Political Leaders Condemn Attack
Political and community leaders from across the UK have condemned the arson as an attack on peace and religious freedom.
Mothin Ali, deputy leader of the Green Party, called on police to determine whether the assault constitutes an act of terrorism, given that people were inside the mosque when it was targeted.
“This community will be feeling frightened and singled out because of their faith,” Ali said. “We need full accountability for what happened and firm action against those who fuel this hate.”
Chris Ward, Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, said he was “appalled” by the “disgusting” act of violence.
“It is sheer luck that nobody was hurt,” he said. “This violence and hatred have no place in our peaceful, tolerant community. We will root it out and stand shoulder to shoulder with all those affected.”
A Pattern of Faith-Based Attacks
Saturday’s arson follows several alarming incidents targeting religious communities in recent weeks. Just days earlier, a ramming and stabbing attack at a synagogue in Manchester left two people dead and three others seriously injured.
The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) described the East Sussex mosque attack as “profoundly shocking and alarming,” urging the government to take immediate steps to strengthen protection for all places of worship.
“This attack fits into a disturbing pattern of violence and intimidation,” the MCB said. “Only last week, an Imam was stabbed in Hounslow, and mosques nationwide have faced bomb threats and coordinated hate campaigns.”
In a joint message of solidarity, the East London Mosque wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Our communities must remain united — Muslims, Jews, Christians, people of all faiths and none — standing together against extremism, intolerance, and violence.”
The Board of Deputies of British Jews echoed this sentiment, stating that “every faith community has the right to worship without fear.”
A Nation on Edge: Rising Protests and Hate Campaigns
The attack comes amid growing tension in Britain, with months of anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim protests spreading across several towns and cities. Demonstrations — often accompanied by #OperationRaiseTheColours, a viral social media campaign — have seen supporters hoisting St George’s Cross flags and Union Jacks from motorway bridges, lampposts, and public spaces.
Although some participants claim the movement is a show of patriotism, it has been linked to racist graffiti, hate symbols, and targeted harassment against asylum seekers and minority communities.
Civil rights groups warn that far-right networks have exploited online platforms to spread misinformation and inflame divisions. They argue that this toxic environment is creating fertile ground for hate crimes such as the Peacehaven attack.
Experts have also pointed out that growing economic hardship, misinformation about immigration, and political polarization have all contributed to the normalization of hate speech in British public discourse.
Calls for Unity and Action
In response to the mosque fire, local leaders and human rights organizations are calling for a national strategy to combat hate crime, improve community policing, and promote interfaith understanding.
Community members in Peacehaven held a small vigil on Sunday evening, lighting candles near the damaged mosque as a gesture of unity and resilience.
“We will rebuild and continue our work,” one volunteer said. “Hate will never win in our town.”
As investigations continue, both faith and civic leaders are urging the public to remain calm but vigilant — and to stand firm against all forms of bigotry and division.