Meaning: The quote you've provided suggests that the United States always needs an enemy, and at the time of the quote, that enemy was perceived to be Islam. The statement is attributed to Walid Jumblatt, a prominent Lebanese politician and the leader of the Progressive Socialist Party. Jumblatt is known for his outspoken views on various political and social issues in the Middle East, particularly in relation to the Arab-Israeli conflict and broader regional dynamics.

In this quote, Jumblatt appears to be commenting on the perception of Islam as a threat in the context of U.S. foreign policy and global geopolitics. He suggests that there is a deliberate effort to portray Islam as the enemy, and he implicates "born-again Christians who formed an alliance with Zionism" in promoting this ideology. This statement reflects a viewpoint that is critical of the alignment between certain Christian groups and pro-Israeli interests, as well as the broader portrayal of Islam as a hostile force by some elements in the West.

The notion that the U.S. always needs an enemy is a concept that has been debated and analyzed by scholars and commentators over the years. It touches on the idea of a perceived external threat being used to rally public opinion, justify military interventions, and shape foreign policy decisions. This perspective suggests that the identification of an enemy serves certain political and strategic interests, and that the specific identity of the enemy may shift over time.

The reference to an alliance between "born-again Christians" and Zionism is significant in this context. It alludes to the influential role of certain Christian evangelical groups in U.S. politics, particularly in relation to their support for Israel and their interpretation of biblical prophecies regarding the Jewish state. This alliance has been a subject of scrutiny and debate, particularly in terms of its impact on U.S. policies in the Middle East and its implications for interfaith relations.

In the broader context of global politics, the perception of Islam as a "monster" reflects the deep-seated cultural, religious, and geopolitical tensions that have characterized relations between the Muslim world and the West. The events of 9/11 and subsequent acts of terrorism attributed to Islamic extremist groups have undoubtedly contributed to the portrayal of Islam as a security threat in the eyes of many Western policymakers and public opinion.

It's important to note that Jumblatt's statement represents a particular perspective on these complex and sensitive issues. While it captures a critical viewpoint on the framing of Islam as an enemy, it is essential to recognize the diversity of opinions and experiences within both the Muslim world and Western societies. The relationship between the U.S. and Islam is multifaceted, encompassing political, economic, cultural, and security dimensions, and it is influenced by a wide range of actors and interests.

In conclusion, the quote by Walid Jumblatt sheds light on the perception of Islam as a perceived enemy in U.S. foreign policy and global geopolitics. It highlights the role of certain religious and political alliances in shaping this perception and underscores the complex dynamics that underpin relations between the West and the Muslim world. The quote invites further reflection on the impact of such perceptions on international relations, interfaith dialogue, and efforts to promote peace and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.

In summary, the quote by Walid Jumblatt provides a thought-provoking perspective on the portrayal of Islam as an enemy in the context of U.S. foreign policy and global geopolitics. It raises important questions about the factors shaping such perceptions, the impact on international relations, and the complexities of addressing cultural, religious, and political tensions in today's world.