A Muslim civil rights organisation has reported a sharp rise in Islamophobia in the United States, claiming that policies introduced during Donald Trump’s presidency contributed to record levels of anti Muslim discrimination in 2025. According to the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), the number of reported anti Muslim and anti Arab incidents reached 8,683 complaints, the highest figure recorded since the organisation began collecting such data in 1996.
The report indicates that the rise in US Islamophobia is partly linked to strict immigration policies and government action against pro Palestinian protests across American universities and cities. CAIR noted that the number of complaints in 2025 slightly exceeded the 8,658 cases reported in 2024, showing that anti Muslim sentiment has continued to grow in recent years.
Among the reported incidents, employment discrimination accounted for the largest share, representing about 12.7 percent of complaints. Other cases involved immigration and asylum related discrimination, hate incidents, and travel restrictions such as excessive screenings and government watchlists targeting Muslim travellers.
Advocacy groups say Islamophobia in the United States has been influenced by several factors over the years. These include the long lasting impact of the September 11 attacks, rising anti immigration rhetoric, and tensions surrounding the Israel Gaza conflict.
The report also criticised the Trump administration’s approach toward Muslim communities, particularly its policies related to immigration enforcement. CAIR highlighted statements made by the former president targeting Somali Americans in Minnesota, accusing them of fraud and making controversial remarks that community leaders say fuelled discrimination.
In addition, the organisation pointed to actions taken against Afghan immigrants following security incidents in the United States. Advocacy groups argue that such responses can lead to collective suspicion toward entire communities.
The administration also faced criticism over its handling of pro Palestinian demonstrations, with some protesters claiming that criticism of Israeli policies was wrongly portrayed as support for extremism.
CAIR warned that these developments have raised concerns about freedom of speech, due process, and civil liberties in the United States. The organisation says continued dialogue and stronger protections are needed to address discrimination and ensure equal rights for all communities.
