Rishi Sunak absent from Downing Street Eid party

In a surprising turn of events, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was notably absent from the annual Eid party held at Downing Street, which saw a significantly smaller turnout than usual. The gathering, attended by roughly 50 people, was missing major Muslim charities and influential business figures. Notable absences included Baroness Warsi, Britain's first female Muslim Cabinet minister, known for her outspoken criticism of the situation in Gaza.

Many attendees displayed symbols of solidarity with Palestine, such as badges featuring the Palestinian flag. Some expressed mixed feelings about attending, with ethical considerations weighing on their decision. Despite deliberations, some felt it was important to mark Eid at Downing Street, while acknowledging the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The absence of Prime Minister Sunak, who cited parliamentary business as the reason for not hosting or attending the event, surprised many guests. This marked the first significant boycott of a Downing Street event, with some noting the absence of MPs at the gathering.

Overall, the event highlighted the complex intersection of politics, ethics, and tradition, as guests navigated their participation in the celebration amidst ongoing global conflicts. The smaller turnout and notable absences underscored the impact of current events on public gatherings and the diverse perspectives within the Muslim community.