Hundreds of UK mosques seek state-funded security amid terror threats

Surveillance camera beneath the minaret of the East London Mosque. Photo: Mike Kemp/Getty Images

Hundreds of mosques across the UK are seeking government funding to bolster security amid attacks and threats. This was reported by the British publication Hyphen.

Between July 2024 and November 2025, 510 mosques applied to take part in the government security scheme. Of these, 199 received funding, while another 311 applications remained under review.

The funding covers CCTV cameras, alarm systems, fencing, gates, and security personnel. The overall budget for the scheme covering mosques and Muslim community centers stands at £40 million a year. Some communities say they have been waiting as long as two years for decisions on their applications.

Representatives of Muslim organizations say heightened security is necessary because of a series of attacks. Incidents cited include arson attacks on imams’ homes, knife attacks on worshippers, vandalism, and intrusions into mosques. There have also been reports of an improvised explosive device being thrown at the Belfast Islamic Centre while people were inside.

The Muslim Council of Britain has called for an independent review of the scheme, citing lengthy delays. The Home Office said it was working to speed up the application process and had increased funding for the security of mosques, Muslim schools, and community centers to a record level.

Earlier, UOJ reported that police officers across England were encouraged to fast during Ramadan in solidarity with Muslims.

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