By Don Terry & Ben Emos | Friday, February 7, 2025 | 4 min read
Dearborn, Michigan—a city deeply rooted in Arab and Muslim culture—is facing a moment of political reckoning. In the 2024 election, many Arab and Muslim voters, frustrated by the Democratic Party’s handling of Gaza and Palestinian issues, opted for Donald Trump over Kamala Harris. Now, after Trump’s latest remarks on Gaza, some fear their choice may have been a miscalculation.
For years, Arab American voters have felt overlooked by both major political parties, particularly regarding U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. The Biden administration’s response to Israel’s military actions in Gaza left many in the community disheartened, leading to an unprecedented shift in voter support toward Trump. However, his recent statements have left many feeling betrayed.
During a public address, Trump suggested that Palestinians should not be allowed to return to Gaza, signaling a stark departure from any commitment to a fair resolution. His remarks have sparked outrage among Arab and Muslim Americans, who had hoped his administration might take a different approach from past Democratic leadership.
Hassan, a lifelong Dearborn resident who voted for Trump, voiced his frustration: “We wanted to send a message to the Democrats, but we didn’t expect this. Now, I feel like we backed the wrong candidate. It’s a tough realization.”
Many in Dearborn now find themselves at a political crossroads. “We didn’t vote for Trump because we loved him,” said Amina, a local business owner. “We voted because we wanted change. But now, we see that he’s no different—maybe even worse.”
Even prominent Arab leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, have expressed concerns over Trump’s handling of Gaza. Reports indicate that the prince, once a financial backer of Jared Kushner’s business ventures, has grown skeptical of Trump’s unpredictability. Arab governments are voicing their apprehension, warning that Trump’s statements could escalate regional instability.
Saudi Arabia has firmly restated its position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, making it clear that normalization with Israel is off the table unless a Palestinian state is established. This directly contradicts Trump’s recent claim that Riyadh was not making such demands.
Trump’s announcement on Tuesday that the United States planned to take control of Gaza after relocating its Palestinian population and spearheading economic development sent shockwaves worldwide. Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump’s remarks raised alarm across diplomatic circles.
Saudi Arabia swiftly rejected the notion, emphasizing its firm stance against any displacement of Palestinians. A statement from the Saudi foreign ministry on Wednesday reinforced the kingdom’s unwavering commitment to Palestinian sovereignty, declaring it non-negotiable.
The issue of Palestinian displacement remains highly sensitive, not just for Palestinians but for the entire Arab world. The ongoing war in Gaza has reignited fears of another “Nakba”—the catastrophe that displaced hundreds of thousands of Palestinians during the creation of Israel.
Saudi Arabia’s position carries major implications for both Trump and Israel. The United States had spent months trying to persuade Saudi Arabia—one of the most influential Arab nations—to formalize ties with Israel. However, the eruption of war in Gaza in October 2023 put those discussions on hold, reflecting the widespread anger in the Arab world over Israel’s military actions.
For many Arab and Muslim Americans, especially in politically active communities like Dearborn, these developments underscore the urgent need for leaders who will genuinely advocate for Palestinian rights. As political shifts continue, voters are demanding accountability from both U.S. parties and global powers alike.
The political future for Arab and Muslim Americans remains uncertain. While the Democratic Party still faces criticism over its handling of Gaza, Trump’s recent remarks have caused many to reassess their political choices. The frustration in Dearborn is about more than one election—it’s about a community seeking true representation, respect, and policies that align with their values.
As 2028 approaches, Arab and Muslim voters in Michigan will be key players in shaping the next political landscape. The pressing question remains: will either party truly listen?
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