Texas Governor’s Reckless Designation of CAIR as “Terrorist” Is Baseless and Dangerous [WASHINGTON D.C., NOVEMBER 18, 2025] — American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) unequivocally condemns the reckless and baseless decision by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to designate the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as a "foreign terrorist and transnational criminal organization." CAIR is the largest American Muslim civil rights organization, dedicated to defending the constitutional and civil rights of American Muslims on the foundation of equal citizenship. It was established in Washington, D.C., by American citizens. Labeling such an organization as a terrorist entity is not only outrageous but a direct attack on the principles of justice and equality that underpin our democracy. This reckless action constitutes a direct assault on civil liberties and an egregious abuse of power. Governor Abbott has a documented history of stoking Islamophobia against American Muslims and of endorsing Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza. These patterns of behavior underscore the political theater behind this announcement, which serves no purpose other than to inflame division and appease extremist networks. “Rather than addressing the real needs of Texans, Governor Abbott continues to squander time and resources on performative gestures aimed at satisfying his allies within the Islamophobia industry and pro-Israel lobbying groups such as AIPAC,” said Dr. Osama Abu Irshaid, AMP’s Executive Director. “This shameful alignment prioritizes foreign interests over the well-being of his constituents and undermines the principles of justice and equality.” AMP is confident that this legally indefensible decision will not withstand scrutiny in U.S. courts. Furthermore, we affirm that politicians who traffic in hate and fear do not represent the future of America. The future belongs to a nation that is diverse, inclusive, and united. One that is built on equal citizenship and free from the corrosive rhetoric that threatens our social fabric. In solidarity, American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) |