The US is dragging Europe back to the days of white supremacism. Our leaders are playing along | Shada Islam

The author reflects on the Islamophobia that intensified after the "war on terror", impacting people like them. George W. Bush's war led to widespread suffering and normalized prejudice against Muslims and minorities. The author expresses concern about a potential resurgence of similar sentiments. Marco Rubio's speech at the Munich Security Conference fuels this fear. Rubio's rhetoric focuses on defending Western civilization against migrant "contamination." This appeal resonates with European elites, as evidenced by the standing ovation. Rubio's approach subtly uses themes of migration, identity, and civilizational anxiety. He differs from Trump and Vance in tone, employing a more diplomatic style. Rubio frames border defense as a patriotic and sovereign act, denying any xenophobic intent. The author believes Rubio's words could represent the beginning of a dangerous sequel. The author runs a Brussels-based company focused on strategy, analysis, and advisory regarding EU affairs.