Recent developments indicate that President Donald Trump is moving towards designating the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization. This follows increased warnings about the group’s growing influence in the United States.
Background on the Muslim Brotherhood
Founded in Egypt, the Muslim Brotherhood is an Islamist organization that has reportedly gained access to various U.S. government agencies. Recent reports suggest that it has been involved in shaping civil rights policies, infiltrating educational institutions, and establishing a significant presence on social media.
State-Sponsored Action
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has already labeled the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization. This move aligns with Trump’s upcoming designation, which he stated will be made “in the strongest and most powerful terms.”
Insights from ISGAP Report
The Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy (ISGAP) released a detailed 200-page study highlighting the organization’s reach into key government departments, including:
- State Department
- Department of Homeland Security
- Department of Justice
This report emphasizes the belief that the Muslim Brotherhood is strategically targeting these agencies for infiltration through various advisory roles and career appointments.
Expert Opinions
Charles Asher Small, executive director of ISGAP, welcomed Trump’s potential designation. He noted that this action would be crucial in confronting the group and its ideological threats. Small called for comprehensive scrutiny of the organization’s funding channels and affiliated structures.
Funding and Ideological Ties
The ISGAP report also delves into the alleged funding sources for the Muslim Brotherhood, including significant backing from entities in Qatar. It posits that the organization, alongside al-Qaeda, shares the underlying goal of establishing an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The Brotherhood differs mainly in its more gradual approach.
Call for Congressional Action
ISGAP is actively gathering scholars and experts to encourage Congress to take definitive actions based on the study’s findings. These actions aim to protect democratic values and resilience in the face of perceived threats. Sebastian Gorka, a Deputy Assistant to the President, echoed this urgency, stating that the Muslim Brotherhood serves as the “progenitor of all modern Jihadist terror groups.” He asserted that it is time to act against this entity.
Conclusion
The forthcoming designation of the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization marks a significant moment in U.S. policy. As discussions continue, the focus remains on reviewing and addressing the potential threats posed by this group to national security and democratic institutions.
