Riots have erupted across the UK, primarily fueled by anti-immigrant sentiments and misinformation surrounding a recent incident in Southport.

Key cities affected by the violence include Belfast, Bolton, Blackburn, Blackpool, Bristol, Hull, Liverpool, Manchester, Middlesbrough, Nottingham, Rotherham, Portsmouth, Stoke-on-Trent, Sunderland, Tamworth, and Weymouth.

In Rotherham, violent clashes resulted in injuries to at least 10 police officers, although no guests or employees were harmed at the targeted hotels.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a crackdown on the riots, which have been fueled by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim sentiments, suggesting potential foreign state involvement in the unrest.

The Prime Minister emphasized the responsibility of social media companies to prevent their platforms from facilitating criminal activity and spreading misinformation.

A Downing Street spokesperson acknowledged the police's efforts to control the riots and noted that additional resources are being deployed strategically across the country.

A COBRA meeting is scheduled to include ministers and police officials to discuss measures aimed at preventing future unrest.

Experts argue that fact-checking alone does not address the root issues; engaging with communities targeted by propaganda is essential.

Police have faced challenges in managing the unrest due to poor intelligence and budget cuts, which have hindered their ability to preemptively address demonstrations.

The unrest poses a significant challenge to Starmer's leadership, with calls from some MPs to recall Parliament to discuss the escalating violence and its implications.

Downing Street has indicated that foreign state actors may be contributing to the online disinformation that has incited the recent riots in Britain.