London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday,September 23, 2025, calling him “racist, sexist, and Islamophobic” after Trump falsely claimed at the UN General Assembly that London is adopting sharia law.
Khan dismissed the remarks, highlighting the city’s global prominence.
Trump’s UN Address
During his Tuesday speech, Trump described Khan as a “terrible mayor” and alleged, without proof, that London is shifting toward Islamic legal systems.
“The city’s changed drastically,” he said, criticizing Khan’s leadership.
Khan’s Response
Khan, a Labour Party member, refuted Trump’s claims, pointing to London’s surge in American visitors and investments.
“We lead globally in culture, sports, and opportunity,” he said, affirming London’s status as a top destination.
Ongoing Tensions
The dispute traces back to 2016, when Khan, London’s first Muslim mayor, criticized Trump’s proposed Muslim travel ban.
In 2019, Khan compared Trump to 1930s dictators, while Trump has insulted Khan, calling him a “failure” and questioning his intelligence.
UK’s Diplomatic Efforts
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, aiming to maintain ties with Trump, welcomed him for a rare second state visit last week.
Minister Pat McFadden defended Khan, saying Trump’s view of London is misguided.
Khan’s Leadership
Since taking office in 2016, Khan has promoted London’s inclusivity, rejecting Trump’s accusations and reinforcing the city’s reputation as a world-class hub.
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