Egyptian Activist Faces Deportation Threats in UK Over Controversial Tweets

Egyptian democracy activist Alaa Abdel Fattah has apologized for resurfaced tweets amid growing calls for his deportation from the UK, which he recently entered following his release from an Egyptian prison. The tweets, dated as far back as 2012, include incendiary remarks against Zionists and police, prompting UK political leaders to question his right to remain in the country. Abdel Fattah, a dual national, acknowledged the severity of the tweets, expressing regret and concern over their impact.

In a statement, he said, “I do understand how shocking and hurtful they are, and for that, I unequivocally apologize.” He further expressed dismay that just as he was reuniting with his family after 12 years, these old tweets had been used against him, elevating calls to revoke his citizenship. Abdel Fattah insisted he took allegations of antisemitism seriously and claimed some tweets were misinterpreted.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage have urged Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to reassess Abdel Fattah's citizenship status, citing his 'racist and anti-British views.' Farage emphasized that such views should disqualify him from entering the UK. The Foreign Office, while having prioritized Abdel Fattah’s release, condemned his tweets as “abhorrent.”

Abdel Fattah was convicted in Egypt for “spreading fake news” in 2021 and granted UK citizenship through his British-born mother while the Conservatives were in power. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp, previously unaware of these details, now advocates for citizenship revocation, considering Abdel Fattah's statements inexcusable.

Responding to the controversy, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer faced criticism for expressing joy over Abdel Fattah's arrival, seemingly unaware of the contentious tweets. In response, Badenoch stated that social media activity, public statements, and belief patterns should influence citizenship decisions, implying that past governments’ efforts for Abdel Fattah’s release should not translate into endorsing him as a moral hero.