Speaking from Birmingham, Rashid criticized Muslims who focus their political activism on opposing the Iranian regime rather than targeting Israel. He argued that efforts should be directed first and foremost at dismantling the Knesset, framing this goal as a religious and political priority.

Rashid, who serves as the resident scholar at the South Birmingham Central Masjid, presented the idea of “re-occupying” Tel Aviv as part of a broader rejection of Israel’s legitimacy, echoing eliminationist rhetoric that goes beyond criticism of Israeli policies and instead calls for the removal of the state’s governing institutions.

NEWSRAEL: WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT
Statements like these highlight how extremist anti-Israel rhetoric is being openly promoted in Western cities under religious cover. Calls to dismantle the Knesset and “re-occupy” Tel Aviv amount to advocating for the destruction of Israel as a sovereign state, raising serious concerns about radicalization, incitement, and the spread of hostile ideology within diaspora communities.