By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Texas Governor Abbott Labels Muslim Brotherhood, CAIR as Foreign Terror Groups, Imposes Statewide Ban
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced the designation of the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American–Islamic Relations (CAIR) as “foreign terrorist” and “transnational criminal” organisations, placing sweeping restrictions on both groups within the state.
Abbott confirmed the designation on Wednesday, accusing the organisations of links to global terrorism.
He said the action bars them from purchasing or owning land anywhere in Texas and authorises legal steps to dismantle their operations.
In a post on X, the governor disclosed that he had directed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to initiate lawsuits aimed at “shutting them down.”
The move marks one of the most aggressive state-level actions taken against the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR in the United States.
Founded in Egypt in 1928, the Muslim Brotherhood is a transnational Islamist organisation with branches and ideological offshoots across several regions, including groups like Hamas.
CAIR, established in 1994, is the largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organisation in the United States.
CAIR has strongly denied any association with the Muslim Brotherhood, insisting it has never been an affiliate, chapter, or agent of any foreign organisation or government.
The designation comes amid heightened political debate in the United States over foreign influence, domestic extremism, and the role of religious advocacy groups.
While the Muslim Brotherhood has been banned or restricted in several Middle Eastern countries, it is not designated as a terrorist organisation by the U.S. federal government.
CAIR has long been a prominent voice for American Muslims, advocating on issues ranging from civil rights to religious discrimination.
The group has frequently clashed with conservative leaders who accuse it of radical ties—claims CAIR maintains are baseless.
Governor Abbott’s decision reflects a broader push by some state-level officials to take independent counter-terrorism actions, even in areas traditionally reserved for federal authorities.
Legal analysts say the move could trigger significant constitutional battles, especially over freedom of association, religious rights, and the limits of state power in foreign policy matters.
The announcement also comes at a time when debates over extremism, religious freedom, and national security have intensified across the United States, potentially setting the stage for prolonged political and legal confrontations.
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