Why Does the Left Love Islam So Much? Unpacking a Complex (and Stupid) Alliance

In a recent viral post on X, Dr. Maalouf shared a video of a far-left activist in France extolling the virtues of Islam, describing it as a "religion of openness, gentleness, forgiveness, acceptance" and the "only inclusive religion." This sentiment, while passionate, has sparked widespread debate and criticism, with many questioning the compatibility between progressive values and certain interpretations of Islamic teachings.

Why do segments of the political left seem so drawn to Islam? This article explores the historical, ideological, and cultural factors behind this perceived affinity, drawing on diverse perspectives to reveal a relationship that's often more strategic than ideological.

Historical Roots: Anti-Imperialism and Solidarity with the Oppressed

The connection between left-wing ideologies and Islam can be traced back to the 20th century's anti-colonial struggles. During the Cold War era, many leftist movements viewed Muslim-majority countries as victims of Western imperialism and capitalism. Figures like Frantz Fanon and movements in Algeria, Iran, and Palestine positioned Islam as a tool of resistance against colonial powers. For instance, in France, where the activist in the video hails from, the left has historically aligned with North African immigrants, seeing them as marginalized groups fighting systemic oppression.

This solidarity persists today. Progressives often frame support for Muslim communities as part of a broader anti-racism and anti-Islamophobia agenda. In the U.S. and Europe, the left defends Muslims against discrimination, viewing them as an underdog minority targeted by right-wing populism. As one analysis notes, this stems from a shared critique of Western dominance, where Islam represents a counter-narrative to capitalist exploitation. However, this overlooks how some Islamist groups exploit this alliance for their own ends, as seen in historical examples like the Iranian Revolution, where leftists initially supported Islamists only to be purged later.

Ideological Overlaps: Totalism, Collectivism, and Social Justice

At a deeper level, some observers point to structural similarities between leftist ideologies and certain aspects of Islam. Both can be seen as "totalist" systems that seek to regulate public and private life for the greater good. Islam's emphasis on community (ummah), social welfare through zakat (charity), and justice aligns with socialist ideals of equity and collective responsibility. Proponents highlight Islam's moral framework, which prohibits usury, promotes environmental stewardship, and advocates for the poor, values that resonate with progressive causes like economic redistribution and anti-capitalism.

Discussions on platforms like Reddit and X reveal admiration for Islam's sense of brotherhood, moral discipline, and resistance to Western individualism. One user noted that Islam's globalist vision, transcending nation-states in favor of a unified community, appeals to leftists who oppose nationalism and borders. Even critics acknowledge that liberal interpretations of Islam emphasize progressivism, with movements for women's rights and LGBTQ inclusion within Muslim communities.

Yet, this overlap is not without tension. Traditional Islamic views on issues like homosexuality, gender roles, and apostasy often clash with leftist commitments to feminism and LGBTQ rights. As author Ali Rizvi puts it, "The left is wrong on Islam. The right is wrong on Muslims"—highlighting how progressives may romanticize the faith while ignoring its conservative elements.

The Paradox: Shared Enemies and Strategic Alliances

A recurring theme in analyses is the "enemy of my enemy" dynamic. Both the left and certain Islamist factions oppose Western hegemony, Zionism, and conservative Christianity. This has led to what French critics call "Islamo-leftism," a term for perceived leniency toward political Islam. In Europe, social democrats have integrated Muslim minorities into leftist coalitions, viewing them as natural allies against far-right xenophobia.

Conservative commentators like Ben Shapiro argue that the left protects Islam because it fits into a multicultural narrative that undermines Judeo-Christian values. On X, users echo this, suggesting the left's admiration stems from a shared hatred of the West, with Islam seen as a tool for deconstructing traditional societies. Others claim it's naivety: leftists idealize Islam as "exotic" or a source of primal masculinity, ignoring risks like violence or authoritarianism.

Skeptics warn that this alliance is temporary. Historical precedents, such as the left's support for Islamists in Iran, show how progressives can become targets once power shifts. In Muslim-majority contexts, leftist values like secularism and gender equality are often suppressed under sharia law.

Counterpoints: Does the Left Really "Love" Islam?

Not all agree with the premise. Some argue the left doesn't "love" Islam but defends Muslims against bigotry, much like it supports other minorities. In the U.S., Muslim voters have increasingly aligned with Democrats, but this is more about shared progressive policies than religious affinity. Critics from within the left, like those in Dissent Magazine, call for consistency in opposing all fundamentalisms, including Islamic ones.

Moreover, positive views of Islam aren't exclusive to the left. Some highlight its emphasis on forgiveness and community as universal appeals. But the French activist's glowing description contrasts sharply with reports of gender-based violence or intolerance in some Islamic societies, fueling accusations of ignorance.

Conclusion: A Fragile Bond Built on Misunderstandings?

The left's apparent affection for Islam is a mix of genuine solidarity, strategic pragmatism, and ideological blind spots. While shared anti-Western sentiments and social justice goals create common ground, fundamental differences on personal freedoms and secularism pose inherent conflicts. As one X user quipped, "Evil recognizes evil," but others see it as a misguided quest for global equity. Ultimately, this alliance may fracture under scrutiny, reminding us that political bedfellows are often united by convenience rather than conviction. Also, if you look around at the carnage that islam and radicalized Islamists have left in their wake (all over the world), you really do have to wonder about Islam selling itself as a religion of peace.

It's a religion first and foremost of war, hatred for those who do not accept it and horrific mistreatment of women and anyone considered an infidel. But the woke left fails to see past their noses. It's both sad and scary.