Sheikh Yasser al-Habib, a controversial cleric often accused of spreading hate, is making headlines for his ambitious plan to purchase a small British island and convert it into a self-styled Islamic state.
The Sheikh, who fled Kuwait and sought asylum in Britain two decades ago, has already raised over £3 million towards his £3.5 million goal. His target is the remote island of Torsa, located off the west coast of Scotland.
Al-Habib, who is known for running military-style training camps, envisions Torsa becoming a hub for his followers. His plans include building a school, hospital, and mosque, all under sharia law.
In a video promoting donations, he promises to negotiate with the UK government to grant visas to Muslims globally, allowing them to settle in this new “homeland.”
The local community on the neighboring island of Luing has expressed unease over these developments.
One resident mentioned, “I have no issues with the Muslim community, but this particular group seems quite alarming based on what I’ve seen.”
Al-Habib, who operates his controversial satellite channel Fadak TV from a converted church hall in Fulmer, South Buckinghamshire, has faced repeated warnings from Ofcom, the UK’s media regulator.
Despite these warnings, his channel continues to broadcast, spreading sectarian hatred and inciting violence.
Al-Habib’s rhetoric, often aimed at Sunni Muslims, has attracted a significant following among Shia Muslims worldwide.
Torsa’s Potential as a Shia Homeland
The island of Torsa, a mile-long piece of land with a single farmhouse, has not been permanently inhabited for over 50 years.
Al-Habib sees it as a unique opportunity to establish a Shia homeland in preparation for the arrival of the Mahdi, a messianic figure in Shia Islam.
His promotional videos highlight plans to build a mosque, school, and Shia seminary on the island.
Local Reactions and Challenges
The idea of transforming Torsa into a new homeland has sparked reactions from local residents and experts. One local commented, “I’m not sure how well this will sit with the Women’s Institute and other community groups. It seems like an unusual idea.”
Sarah Zaaimi, a deputy director at the Atlantic Council, voiced concerns about the implications for UK sovereignty and questioned why UK authorities are allowing such a project to proceed.
Historical Controversies
Al-Habib’s past is marked by controversy, including a film he wrote that was pulled from cinemas due to protests from Sunni Muslims and accusations of blasphemy.
He has also made inflammatory remarks about various groups and individuals, further adding to his notoriety.
In response to the ongoing situation, former MP Khalid Mahmood has called for action against Al-Habib, arguing that if similar behavior were exhibited by far-right groups, there would be a stronger response from authorities.
Despite numerous attempts to reach out, Al-Habib has not provided any comments on the matter.
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