Being Muslim After 9/11 documentary revisits effects on British Muslims

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 12, 2026

A new documentary marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks by examining how British Muslims have been affected by related global events, domestic policies like the Prevent strategy, and far-right opposition over the past quarter-century. The film provides insight into the community's resilience amid collective trauma but omits recent international conflicts, which some viewers believe limits its portrayal of current British Muslim experiences.

Marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, a new documentary revisits the experiences of British Muslims in the years since the tragedy. Reported by Mobeen Azhar and produced by Masood Khan, the film draws on archival material and renewed interviews with imams, activists, and public figures such as Baroness Warsi to explore how the community has been affected by global and domestic events linked to 9/11.

The documentary charts a range of developments that have shaped the social and political landscape for British Muslims over the past quarter-century. These include the military interventions authorized by former U.S. President George W. Bush in the wake of 9/11, which had far-reaching international consequences. It also examines the impact of the UK government’s Prevent strategy, an anti-radicalization initiative that has generated significant debate regarding its effects on Muslim communities.

The film further reflects on domestic terror attacks, notably the 7/7 bombings in London in 2005, which heightened scrutiny and tensions. Additionally, it addresses the rise of far-right groups such as the English Defence League, led by Tommy Robinson, which have actively opposed Muslim communities and contributed to societal divisions.

Throughout the documentary, Azhar describes British Muslims as a "community with collective trauma," though the individuals interviewed, many of whom are not public figures, generally come across as resilient and composed rather than psychologically wounded. Baroness Warsi, a prominent Muslim politician and campaigner, provides a contrasting energetic perspective, underscoring ongoing challenges and engagement.

One point noted by observers is the documentary’s limited attention to recent international developments, particularly the attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent conflicts that have involved the UK politically and socially. This absence may leave some viewers feeling that the film does not fully capture the current dynamics influencing British Muslim identities and experiences.

Overall, the film offers a reflective overview of the complex interplay between global events and domestic policies that have shaped the lives of British Muslims since 9/11, highlighting both endurance and ongoing issues within the community.

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