Belfast: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned the recent spate of rioting in Belfast, deeming it "totally unjustified" after a night of chaos and disorder in Northern Ireland. The unrest followed a "horrific attack" that has prompted political leaders to call for calm and order in the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, Starmer, responding to a Labour backbencher during Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, expressed his dismay over the attack that occurred on Monday night in north Belfast. He informed Members of Parliament that the suspect had appeared in court in Belfast and had been charged. Starmer extended his gratitude to the Police Service of Northern Ireland, first responders, and members of the public for their courageous actions during the incident, while expressing solidarity with the victim. He emphasized that the subsequent acts of violence and arson were inexcusable and called for unity in restoring order, supporting law enforcement, and ensuring justice.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch shared Starmer's sentiments, describing the violence as "deeply, deeply disturbing." While acknowledging the public's anger and frustration, Badenoch insisted that violent actions, such as burning homes or attacking police, are unacceptable. She stressed the importance of political accountability in securing the nation's borders.

During a session in the House of Commons, Minister Dan Jarvis reported the arrest of three individuals in connection with the Belfast violence, cautioning that further arrests were likely. The unrest erupted on Tuesday evening, as anti-immigration protests spread across Northern Ireland in response to the knife attack in north Belfast. The demonstrations, however, escalated into violent confrontations, with properties and vehicles set ablaze, and public transport services severely disrupted.

Residents in affected areas were forced to evacuate as the unrest spread, notably in east Belfast where a Glider bus was torched, leading to the suspension of all bus and train services. Local media identified the suspect as a Sudanese national who had been granted leave to remain in the UK after entering through Ireland. The 30-year-old now faces additional charges, including possessing a bladed article in a public place and making threats to kill.