Meaning: The quote "The United States is not, and never will be, at war with Islam" was made by Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, during his speech at Cairo University in Egypt on June 4, 2009. This statement was part of a broader effort by President Obama to mend relations between the United States and the Muslim world, which had been strained by the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

In his speech, President Obama sought to emphasize the common values and shared interests between the United States and the Muslim world, while also acknowledging the historical tensions and misunderstandings that had existed. He emphasized the need for mutual respect and understanding, and he expressed a commitment to pursuing a new era of engagement and cooperation.

The significance of this quote lies in its attempt to shift the narrative away from a perceived "clash of civilizations" between the West and Islam, and towards a framework of mutual respect and partnership. By explicitly stating that the United States is not at war with Islam, President Obama aimed to reassure Muslims around the world and to signal a new approach to foreign policy that prioritized diplomacy and dialogue over military confrontation.

This quote also reflects President Obama's broader approach to foreign policy, which sought to emphasize multilateralism, diplomacy, and engagement with the international community. Throughout his presidency, he made efforts to reach out to Muslim-majority countries, such as his early visits to Turkey and Egypt, and his administration's support for democratic movements in the Middle East during the Arab Spring.

The quote can also be seen in the context of domestic politics in the United States. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, there were concerns about Islamophobia and discrimination against Muslim Americans. By explicitly stating that the United States is not at war with Islam, President Obama aimed to counteract these sentiments and to promote a message of inclusivity and tolerance.

While this quote was received positively by many in the Muslim world and by proponents of a more diplomatic foreign policy, it also faced criticism from some who viewed it as naive or overly conciliatory. Critics argued that the United States was indeed engaged in military conflicts in Muslim-majority countries, and that the quote downplayed the real security challenges posed by extremist groups.

In conclusion, the quote "The United States is not, and never will be, at war with Islam" reflects President Obama's efforts to recalibrate America's relationship with the Muslim world and to promote a message of mutual respect and understanding. It was a key element of his broader approach to foreign policy and his efforts to address the legacy of the 9/11 attacks. While it was not without controversy, the quote remains a significant part of President Obama's legacy and his efforts to promote a more inclusive and constructive approach to international relations.