Texas Governor Declares CAIR and Muslim Brotherhood as Terrorist Organizations

On November 18, 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott officially designated the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as "foreign terrorist organizations." This declaration prohibits these groups from acquiring property in Texas and empowers the state attorney general to pursue legal action against entities affiliated with them. Abbott's assertion is based on claims of direct ties between CAIR and Hamas, a group recognized as a terrorist organization by the U.S. government. CAIR has consistently denied these allegations.

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Abbott's declaration represents a significant escalation in his administration's confrontations with Muslim organizations in Texas, particularly following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel and the ensuing conflict in Gaza. This move is unprecedented at the state level, as only the U.S. Secretary of State has the authority to designate foreign terrorist organizations under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Abbott's actions have drawn criticism for lacking legal foundation, as states do not possess the authority to make such designations.

The Guardian

In his statement, Abbott emphasized that the actions of CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood to support terrorism and undermine U.S. laws are "unacceptable." He stated, “These radical extremists are not welcome in our state and are now prohibited from acquiring any real property interest in Texas.” Conversely, CAIR responded by accusing Abbott of fostering anti-Muslim sentiment and described him as an "Israel First politician." They highlighted their commitment to civil rights and their history of legal challenges against Abbott for First Amendment violations.

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Critics argue that Abbott's declaration lacks legal backing and could further marginalize Texas's Muslim community. The designation does not carry federal implications, such as asset freezing or criminal penalties, which are typically associated with legitimate federal terrorist designations. Furthermore, the lack of clarity regarding how the state will determine affiliations with CAIR or the Muslim Brotherhood raises concerns about potential overreach and discrimination.

The Guardian

The declaration follows a series of investigations into a proposed Muslim community development project known as Epic City, which Abbott labeled a "sharia compound." This project has faced scrutiny and legal challenges, including a resolution of fair housing allegations by the Texas Workforce Commission. Abbott's administration has also initiated multiple investigations into the project, further intensifying tensions within the local Muslim community.

The Guardian

As Abbott prepares for a re-election campaign, the implications of his declaration may resonate beyond Texas, potentially influencing national conversations about Muslim organizations and civil rights. The legal ramifications of his actions remain to be seen, particularly regarding how they will affect CAIR's operations and the broader Muslim community in Texas.

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• “These radical extremists are not welcome in our state and are now prohibited from acquiring any real property interest in Texas.” — Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas

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• “Greg Abbott is an Israel First politician who has spent months stoking anti-Muslim hysteria to smear American Muslims critical of the Israeli government.” — CAIR Statement

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• “The Muslim Brotherhood and Cair have long made their goals clear: to forcibly impose sharia law and establish Islam’s ‘mastership of the world’,” — Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas

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