The West Faces Two Islams

The dynamics of Islam and its relationship with the West, highlighting a shift from a civilizational clash to an internal ideological struggle within Islam itself. This shifting paradigm reflects changes in both Western societies and the Middle East.

1. Samuel Huntington's Theory: Huntington predicted that post-Cold War conflicts would be primarily between Islamic and Western civilizations. However, the real divide now exists within Islam, splitting into different ideological perspectives.

2. Modern Ideologies: In Western countries, Islam has often been linked to Third-Worldism and postcolonial theory, which view Western imperialism negatively. Historically, many Middle Eastern states have been moving towards pragmatism and acceptance of certain Western realities, focusing on modernization and statecraft.

3. Fragmentation of Political Islam: The Islamist challenge that emerged after the September 11 attacks has now splintered. Groups like Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have weakened, and several Middle Eastern governments now regard traditional Islamist movements as potential threats.

4. Iran's Stance: Iran remains resistant to Western influence, but its revolutionary ideals are losing appeal among younger populations. Discontent and protests have emerged in Iran, indicating a shift in attitudes towards the government.

5. Abraham Accords: Relations among Middle Eastern countries, including those with Israel, have evolved. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are focusing on cooperative partnerships that benefit security and technology.

6. Shifts in Middle Eastern Policy: Arab states prioritize security and economic growth over ideological conflicts. They have learned that innovation and modern practices are vital for resilience and development.

7. Western Discourse on the Middle East: In the West, academic and political dialogues about the Middle East often embrace postcolonial theories, framing the conflict through perspectives of anti-colonialism and social justice. This growing movement has manifested in campus activism and political campaigns.

8. Convergence of Radical Actions and Progressive Politics: Anti-Israel activism and progressive movements have intersected, leading to increased tensions. Notable incidents of anti-Semitism have grown, particularly in academic settings.

9. Impact on International Relations: There is a conflict between the views of many diaspora activists in the West, who resist collaboration with Western and Middle Eastern countries, and the pragmatic policies of governments in the Middle East, which seek partnerships for development.

The article highlights that the real challenges in the twenty-first century will arise not from a clash between Islam and the West, but from conflicting forms of Islam that have emerged within Western societies and the Middle Eastern governments. A significant ideological rift exists between those in the West advocating for resistance narratives and Middle Eastern states pursuing modernization and cooperation with the U.S. and Israel. This call for reevaluation of existing narratives reflects a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of global politics and religion. 

https://www.city-journal.org/article/islam-middle-east-iran-israel-west