Anti-immigration protests erupted in Belfast following a knife attack that has heightened tensions in Northern Ireland's capital. Political leaders have issued urgent appeals for calm, urging the public to refrain from vigilantism and to trust in the police investigation.
"Violence is never the answer," said a spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Executive. "We must stand together against those who seek to divide us."
The protests, which drew hundreds of participants, saw clashes with police and damage to property. Community leaders from both nationalist and unionist backgrounds have condemned the unrest, emphasizing that the actions of a few should not define an entire community.
Authorities have increased patrols and are monitoring social media to prevent further escalation. The incident has reignited debates about immigration policy and community relations in Northern Ireland, with many calling for dialogue and education to address underlying fears.