Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, has unexpectedly suggested that the government might need to reconsider allowing Shamima Begum to return to the UK. The 23-year-old left Britain in 2015 to join the Islamic State group in Syria, prompting widespread debate over her citizenship and potential security threat.
A Surprising Change of Heart
In an interview with ITV News political correspondent Harry Horton, Farage admitted he’d previously been staunchly against Begum’s return. However, he now says he’s “thoughtful” about the issue. He cites comments by former Donald Trump advisor Sebastian Gorka, who argues that European countries should handle ISIS members in their own prisons rather than risk them escaping custody under a new regime in Syria.
“It’s very difficult for us to think we should take people back,” Farage said. “Gorka argues if we don’t, they’ll get out of prison and become everyone’s problem.”
Critics Hit Back
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick instantly shot down Farage’s stance on X (formerly Twitter), bluntly stating:
“No we shouldn’t.”
Meanwhile, Elon Musk—who recently suggested Farage should be replaced as Reform UK leader—also waded in, tweeting:
“Allowing ISIS fighters back to Europe simply sets the stage for terrorist mass murder.”
The two men’s relationship appears increasingly strained, given Farage’s opposition to welcoming far-right figure Tommy Robinson into Reform UK—an idea Musk reportedly entertained.
Kemi Badenoch’s Firm Stance
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch also joined the fray, tweeting:
“A Conservative government led by me will never take back terrorists like Shamima Begum… Citizenship means committing to a country and wanting its success. It’s not an international travel document for crime tourism.”
Musk vs Farage: A Growing Rift?
Farage has come under intense scrutiny after Musk’s public call for him to step down as Reform leader, saying he “[doesn’t] have what it takes.” The pair had been aligned on key issues—both are vocal Donald Trump supporters—but the feud over Tommy Robinson and grooming gangs appears to have driven a wedge between them.
Still, Farage remains in place as Reform UK leader and MP for Clacton. Whether this latest spat will weaken his hold on the party remains to be seen.
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