The reverberations of Donald Trump’s decisive victory in the US presidential election are being felt far beyond American borders, particularly in Europe. While much attention has been given to Trump’s cabinet appointments and domestic agenda, European politicians are quietly absorbing the broader implications of his triumph, especially concerning the politically charged issue of migration. The election serves as a stark reminder of growing global dissatisfaction with traditional leadership and may prompt European leaders to reconsider their approach to migration policy-a shift with significant ramifications for their relationship with the Middle East.

Trump’s success underscores two emerging global political trends: incumbency as a liability and public exhaustion with unfulfilled promises on curbing migration. Across democracies, from South Africa to India, voters are increasingly disillusioned with incumbent governments. In Europe, nations like the UK, Germany, France, and Italy have witnessed political upheaval fueled by dissatisfaction with the status quo. Notably, the UK’s Conservative Party, once a dominant force, suffered a historic electoral defeat this year, driven partly by its failure to address migration concerns effectively.

European leaders are taking note. The scale and impact of migration on domestic politics are undeniable. According to the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), approximately 29 million people have migrated to Europe from the Middle East over the past decade, both legally and illegally. In 2023 alone, 385,000 individuals entered Europe, often risking their lives in perilous Mediterranean crossings. The UK’s inability to “Stop the Boats” crossing the English Channel became a major........

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