UPDATE: The Trump administration is making urgent preparations to offer refuge to Hamit Coskun, a man convicted for burning a Koran outside the Turkish consulate in London, if he loses a key appeal on February 17, 2025. This controversial case is igniting a fierce debate over free speech in the UK.
Authorities confirm that discussions are underway within the State Department to assist Coskun, who faces the possibility of further legal action following a High Court hearing this week. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is contesting his earlier victory, a development that could have serious implications for free speech rights in the UK and transatlantic relations.
Coskun, aged 51 and of Armenian-Kurdish descent, was convicted last year for a public order offence after he publicly burned the Quran. He was fined £240 and labeled by the court as having a “deep-seated hatred of Islam.” His provocative act occurred on February 13, 2025, when he shouted anti-Islam comments while holding the Koran aloft in Knightsbridge, London.
If Coskun loses his case, he could become a refugee in the United States, with one senior US official stating that his situation is “one of several cases the administration has made note of.” This potential intervention could further escalate tensions over free speech, particularly as critics argue that rights are being curtailed under the current UK government led by Sir Keir Starmer.
In statements to the media, Coskun expressed his views on the situation: “For me, as the victim of Islamic terrorism, I cannot remain silent. If I am forced to flee to the USA, it will mean that the UK has capitulated to Islamism.” He emphasizes that his actions are a political protest against what he perceives as the Islamification of Turkey.
The Free Speech Union is actively supporting Coskun, with Lord Young of Acton warning that a loss in court would signify a “death knell for free speech in Britain.” He further argues that this would create a dangerous precedent, leading to what he calls a “stabber’s veto” on free expression.
As the High Court hearing approaches, all eyes are on the outcome and the potential ramifications for both individual rights and international relations. Should Coskun win, he plans to continue his protests against what he perceives as the threats posed by radical Islam.
With Vice President JD Vance emphasizing the need for free speech at international forums, the unfolding scenario raises critical questions about the future of personal freedoms in both the UK and the US.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates as this story develops.
