𝓤𝓷𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓝𝓮𝔀𝓼

Sir Sadiq Khan declared the “power of being Muslim” as thousands gathered in Trafalgar Square for what he called the biggest iftar in the Western world. Addressing the crowd breaking their Ramadan fast, the mayor praised attendees and pushed back against perceived threats.

London Mayor Sir Sadiq said: “We see the forces of division and darkness pitting communities against each other, trying to cower us and scare us to be less Muslim, to be less Islamic.” He added: “We’ve shown during this month of Ramadan the power of being a Muslim. The joy of being British.”

Sir Sadiq, who was knighted for public service, claimed the Open Iftar event—organised by the Ramadan Tent Project—surpassed all others in the West.

He told the assembly: “We have tonight… not just the biggest iftar taking place in London, not just the biggest iftar in Europe… but the biggest iftar in Western world.”

The mayor highlighted interfaith participation, noting he met Christians, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, and atheists sharing the meal in the iconic square. Sir Sadiq praised the “multi-cultural allyship” from other faiths, acknowledging it was “difficult to be a Muslim in 2026.”

He also celebrated London’s Ramadan lights—now in their fourth year—as a defiant symbol against critics.

Sir Sadiq said: “There were Islamophobes and people denigrating London. But I’m really pleased… for four years, we’ve had lights celebrating Ramadan in the heart of our city.”

The Ramadan Tent Project, founded in 2013 by SOAS University students, promotes community through open iftars welcoming the vulnerable, homeless, and all faiths. Last year, its UK events drew over one million attendees.

This year’s programme featured venues including Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the National Gallery, and sites beyond London such as Glasgow City Chambers and Bradford Live.

The Trafalgar Square gathering capped a series of high-profile iftars held from February 20 to March 16, underscoring London’s embrace of its diverse Muslim community amid ongoing debates over integration and identity.