Trump Administration Moves to Designate Muslim Brotherhood Chapters as Terrorist Organizations

On October 23, 2023, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury to evaluate whether specific chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood should be designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs). This order is part of a broader strategy to confront the Muslim Brotherhood's transnational network, which the administration claims fuels terrorism and destabilization efforts against U.S. interests and allies in the Middle East.

Trump Moves to Label Muslim Brotherhood Chapters as Terrorist OrganizationsWhite House to designate certain Muslim Brotherhood chapters as terrorist organization in landmark Executive OrderNewsweek

The Muslim Brotherhood, founded in Egypt in 1928, has evolved into a transnational organization with various chapters across the Middle East and North Africa. While some branches, such as the Palestinian group Hamas, have engaged in violence, others have participated in democratic processes. The organization has faced scrutiny and bans from several countries, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, particularly after the political upheavals following the 2011 Arab Spring.

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The executive order mandates a report within 45 days from the Secretaries of State and Treasury, assessing the potential designations of chapters in countries like Egypt, Lebanon, and Jordan. The primary goals of these designations include disrupting the operational capabilities of these groups, depriving them of financial resources, and mitigating threats to U.S. national security. The order follows reports of the Lebanese chapter's involvement in coordinating rocket attacks against Israel and incitement of violence against U.S. interests by Egyptian leaders.

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The White House emphasized that this action is a critical step in safeguarding national security. A White House fact sheet stated, "President Trump continues to prioritize robust counterterrorism measures to protect Americans and strengthen national security against foreign threats." Additionally, Texas Governor Greg Abbott expressed support for the executive order, stating it is essential for American safety and national security.

Trump Moves to Label Muslim Brotherhood Chapters as Terrorist Organizations

The designation of the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization has faced opposition. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) criticized Texas Governor Abbott's recent designation of the group as a terrorist organization, asserting that his office lacks the authority to unilaterally declare any American or American institution as a terrorist group. CAIR has filed a lawsuit challenging this move, claiming it violates constitutional rights.

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While the Trump administration's actions are framed as a response to recent threats, there are discrepancies regarding the extent of the Muslim Brotherhood's involvement in terrorism. Some sources highlight the organization's political engagement and peaceful operations in certain countries, contrasting with claims of its support for violence. The federal government has never officially designated the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, despite previous congressional proposals.

NewsweekWhite House to designate certain Muslim Brotherhood chapters as terrorist organization in landmark Executive OrderTrump Moves to Label Muslim Brotherhood Chapters as Terrorist Organizations

Following the report from the Secretaries of State and Treasury, if the designations are deemed appropriate, actions must be taken within 45 days. This could lead to severe financial sanctions, asset freezes, and criminalization of material support for the designated chapters, significantly impacting their operations and international relations.

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• “America will NOT tolerate those who fund & fuel radical terrorism. Today, President Trump took decisive action to secure America from terrorist threats by initiating the process to designate certain Muslim Brotherhood entities as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.” — White House Statement

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• “ Republican Texas Senator Greg Abbott said in a statement on Monday, in part: "I applaud President Trump for his leadership in advancing and announcing today’s Executive Order, which is critical to American national security and to the safety of Americans.” — Texas Governor Greg Abbott

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• “If @realDonaldTrump designates the Muslim Brotherhood (MB) a terrorist organization, I’ll start chiseling his likeness on Mount Rushmore.” — Mike Flynn, Trump Ally

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