Waiting for Saladin.

The article focuses on the contemporary challenges facing the Muslim world, comparing its current state to the ill-fated French naval ship Medusa, symbolizing helplessness and misdirection. It outlines the historical impact of European colonialism and geopolitical interventions, particularly by Britain and France, which fragmented Muslim-majority regions and contributed to ongoing conflicts such as the Arab-Israeli dispute. The Muslim world, comprising 57 states and representing about one-fourth of humanity, is described as politically unstable, economically dependent on the West, and divided internally, with limited democratic traditions and persistent violence. The article suggests that overcoming these challenges requires the Muslim world to address its internal weaknesses and consider forming a treaty-based alliance among influential Muslim countries to enhance political, economic, and security cooperation on the global stage.