Why has Belfast erupted in anti-immigrant violence after a knife attack?

Anti-immigration riots erupted in Belfast after a Sudanese refugee allegedly stabbed a 40-year-old man repeatedly in the head and neck. Masked protesters blocked roads and torched cars and buildings. First Minister Michelle O'Neill described the riots as 'nothing less than disgusting cowardice' and condemned racism and violence. The 30-year-old suspect was charged with attempted murder. He arrived in the UK in 2023 via Paris and Dublin and has a legal residence permit valid until 2028. The violence occurs amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment in Britain, with similar clashes in Southampton.