A new Arabic bookstore in central London has been accused of antisemitism for prominently displaying copies of Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf." The Aafaq Bookstore, located on Edgware Road, features a wide selection of titles, but the inclusion of Hitler's manifesto on a main display table has prompted strong criticism.
Conservative councilor Elliot Keck for Hyde Park expressed his dismay, stating that the books were not presented as academic references but were instead featured on a prominent display. He told the Daily Mail, "It makes me sick to my stomach to find copies of Mein Kampf being proudly displayed in a new bookshop in my ward." Keck added that he did not believe the local council had the power to intervene but hoped the business would fail.
"Mein Kampf," which translates to "My Struggle," was written in 1925 and is known for its antisemitic content and promotion of Aryan supremacy. A shopper who visited the store described the display as "hate propaganda" and expressed disappointment that it was placed on a featured table rather than a historical section.
When approached, a shop assistant stated that the book was no longer on display due to the online criticism. She defended the store's decision to stock the book, questioning if the scrutiny was due to it being an Arabic bookstore. "Reading Mein Kampf shows people the danger of these ideas, rather than promote them," she argued, also noting that Waterstones stocks the book.
A spokesperson for Waterstones confirmed that the bookstore makes a wide range of books available to customers and can supply "Mein Kampf," though it is not widely stocked in their physical stores and can be ordered online. "As a bookseller, we believe customers should be able to make their own decision about which books they choose to read," the spokesperson said.
The sale of "Mein Kampf" is legal in the UK, but some online platforms have discontinued its sale, citing concerns about its potential to fuel racism. Westminster Council was contacted for comment.