Published: 12:22 AM, 21 October 2026
US Holds No Animosity to Muslim Ummah: Donald Trump
During his first presidential term, US President Donald Trump addressed leaders of Muslim-majority countries at the Arab Islamic American Summit in Riyadh in May 2017. He emphasized cooperation and stated that the fight against terrorism should not be viewed as a conflict between different religions or civilizations. - Sunday Express
The relationship between the United States and the Muslim world remains an important issue in international diplomacy, shaped by political interests, economic cooperation, security concerns and longstanding cultural connections. US President Donald Trump's message of friendship toward Muslim-majority countries has drawn attention to the possibility of building stronger relations between Washington and the Muslim Ummah. However, the credibility of such a message ultimately depends on whether diplomatic statements are translated into policies that promote mutual respect, peace and justice.
During his first presidential term, US President Donald Trump addressed leaders of Muslim-majority countries at the Arab Islamic American Summit in Riyadh in May 2017. He emphasized cooperation and argued that the fight against terrorism should not be viewed as a conflict between different religions or civilizations. Instead, he presented it as a struggle against violent extremists who threaten people of all faiths. This distinction remains important because associating Islam with terrorism can deepen prejudice and undermine efforts to promote peaceful coexistence.
The Muslim Ummah represents a diverse community spanning Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. Its members differ in nationality, language, political systems and cultural traditions, but share important religious beliefs and values. A constructive American policy toward Muslim communities should recognize this diversity and avoid treating the Muslim world as a single political entity. Respect for religious freedom, national sovereignty and cultural identity can provide a foundation for more productive international relations.
For Bangladesh, relations between the United States and Muslim-majority countries are particularly significant. As a Muslim-majority nation with a large population and an economy connected to international trade, Bangladesh has a strong interest in global stability, fair economic opportunities and peaceful diplomacy. The United States is an important partner in areas such as the garment trade, development cooperation, education and people-to-people exchanges. A more constructive relationship between Washington and the wider Muslim world could create opportunities for Bangladesh to expand trade, attract investment and strengthen cooperation on climate change and regional security.
Nevertheless, declarations of friendship must be accompanied by consistent action.
Trump's political record has included controversial statements about Islam and policies restricting entry to the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. His administration's approach to immigration and national security generated concerns among Muslim communities and civil liberties advocates. Such controversies illustrate why reassurance alone may not be enough to overcome distrust.
One of the most important tests of American relations with the Muslim world is the pursuit of peace in the Middle East. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a major source of anger and disappointment across Muslim-majority societies. Civilian suffering, displacement and restrictions on humanitarian assistance have reinforced calls for a more balanced and effective international response. If Washington wishes to strengthen its credibility among Muslim populations, its diplomacy should consistently support civilian protection, humanitarian access and a just and lasting settlement that respects the rights and security of both Palestinians and Israelis.
Counterterrorism is another area in which cooperation is essential. Violent extremist organizations have caused immense suffering in Muslim-majority countries and elsewhere. Their victims include Muslims who reject violence and seek peaceful lives for their families. Effective counterterrorism therefore requires intelligence sharing, lawful security measures, educational initiatives and efforts to address the conditions that allow extremist groups to recruit supporters. It must also avoid collective suspicion of Muslims, because discrimination can alienate communities whose cooperation is vital to public safety.
Economic partnership offers another opportunity to improve relations. The United States and Muslim-majority countries can cooperate in trade, energy, technology, agriculture, public health and higher education. Bangladesh, in particular, could benefit from expanded investment, skills development and access to advanced technologies. Such cooperation should be based on mutual benefit rather than political pressure and should contribute to employment, sustainable development and improved living standards.
Muslim Americans also have an important role in strengthening relations between the United States and the Muslim world. They contribute to American society as professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, public servants and community leaders. Protecting their constitutional rights and ensuring that they are treated equally under the law would demonstrate that religious diversity and national belonging are compatible. Religious freedom should be defended not only as a diplomatic principle but also as a fundamental right within American society.
Ultimately, the claim that the United States holds no animosity toward the Muslim Ummah should be judged by the consistency of its actions. Friendship cannot be built through speeches alone, nor can distrust be overcome by diplomatic ceremonies. It requires policies that reject religious prejudice, protect civilians, encourage fair economic cooperation and respect the legitimate interests of Muslim-majority nations.
For Bangladesh and the wider Muslim world, a peaceful and mutually respectful relationship with Washington would serve important economic and diplomatic interests. For the United States, constructive engagement could strengthen international partnerships and contribute to global stability. The way forward lies in dialogue rather than hostility, cooperation rather than confrontation and justice rather than selective principles. If these commitments are reflected in practical policies, relations between the United States and the Muslim Ummah can become more stable, productive and beneficial for people on both sides.
