Controversial Islamic opponent cancels tour over safety concerns

Renowned Islam critic Ayaan Hirsi Ali has cancelled an upcoming trip to Australia over fears for her safety.

Ms Ali, who has staunchly opposed the rise of Islamic extremists, was due to appear on ABC's Q&A tonight followed by a speaking tour of Australia and New Zealand.

Media with organised interviews were told "security concerns" was one of the reasons for Ms Ali cancelling her tour, News Corp reports.

The Somalian born Muslim turned atheist currently resides in the US and has penned several books calling for Islam to be reworked to accommodate western world values.

A Change.org petition garnering 391 signatures was started a month ago by a concerned group of Muslim woman calling for Ms Ali to be banned from speaking in Australia.

Over the years the activist and former politician has received death threats for her opinions on Islamic reforms and has been forced to live with round the clock security.

ABC confirmed in a tweet that Ms Ali had capitulated to mounting pressure and would not be appearing on the program tonight.

Venues set to host the author had been warned prior that protests would likely be staged by her opponents.