Colum Eastwood has condemned commentary from right-wing politicians in England about a what he described as an ‘absolutely horrific’ stabbing incident in Belfast on Monday evening.

Mr. Eastwood wished the victim of the reported stabbing in the Antrim Road area a full recovery.

Police confirmed a man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a serious assault involving a knife in the Kinnaird Avenue area of north Belfast shortly after 10.30am on June 8.

The injured man, in his 40s, is in hospital where his condition is described as serious.

The reported attack has left the man with significant injuries to his face, neck and back.

Footage has been circulating online and has been shared by right-wing figures in Britain, Ireland and the US.

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood described the scenes as ‘absolutely horrific’.

"I really hope the victim is ok. Well done to the local people who stepped in,” said the former SDLP leader.

However, he added: “The horrific scenes in North Belfast should not be used by English, right wing politicians to further their own ends. I don’t ever remember them commenting on any of the other hellish things that community has experienced over the years.”

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: “This is a deeply concerning assault and I have declared this a critical incident. We have commenced an investigation to establish a motive.

“This brutal attack will have sent shockwaves through the community causing real concern. I want to reassure the local community that we are treating this attack with the utmost seriousness. Our investigation is continuing at pace. Community safety is our priority and we are currently engaging with local representatives and residents to provide reassurance and support."

ACC Henderson said PSNI officers were on the scene within minutes.

He acknowledged members of the public who strived to save the man from further attack.

"Their willingness to step forward to help another person shows incredible bravery and community spirit.

"We are also aware of footage circulating online and we would strongly urge members of the public not to share or repost these images. Doing so risks causing further trauma to the injured man’s loved ones and may impact the ongoing investigation. Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family at this deeply distressing time,” he said.