A turbulent week in Belfast followed widespread anti-immigration protests sparked by the murders of three young children in Southport, England. It began with a tense and unprecedented atmosphere as a delegation from Dublin joined far-right Loyalist protesters at Belfast City Hall, facing off against an anti-racism counter-rally. Later that day, Muslim-owned businesses were attacked and set alight. In one instance, sectarian tensions were reignited when the Lower Ormeau — a historically Irish nationalist area — came under attack from Loyalists. Sporadic rioting broke out across multiple Loyalist strongholds throughout the week, accompanied by racist attacks on foreign nationals.