On November 18, 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott made a significant announcement regarding national security. He officially designated the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). This designation is aimed at strengthening law enforcement’s ability to act against these entities and their affiliates.
Implications of the Designation
This new status comes with strict regulations. Both organizations are now barred from purchasing or acquiring land in Texas. Governor Abbott emphasized the enforcement of these measures, which aim to enhance public safety and uphold state laws.
Statements from Governor Abbott
In a press release, Governor Abbott asserted, “The Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR have long made their goals clear: to forcibly impose Sharia law and establish Islam’s ‘mastership of the world.’” His comments reflect a strong stance against what he describes as radical extremism.
Concerns About Extremism
The governor expressed concern over the activities attributed to these organizations. He accused them of supporting terrorism globally and attempting to disrupt the rule of law in the U.S. through various forms of intimidation and harassment.
Summary of Key Points
- Designation Date: November 18, 2025
- Organizations Designated: Muslim Brotherhood, CAIR
- Classification: Foreign terrorist organizations and transnational criminal organizations
- Prohibitions: Purchase or acquisition of land in Texas
- Governor’s Emphasis: Importance of law enforcement actions against extremism
Governor Abbott’s declaration serves as a crucial step in Texas’s efforts to combat perceived threats from these groups. The implications of this designation will likely have lasting effects on how organizations perceived as hostile are treated within the state.
