AUSTIN, Texas — Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday designated the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as terrorist and transnational criminal organizations, announcing a ban that would prevent both groups — and individuals affiliated with them — from purchasing or acquiring land in Texas. The move marks one of the most sweeping state-level attempts to restrict land ownership based on organizational affiliation.
Abbott accused the groups of supporting terrorism abroad and attempting to “subvert Texas laws through violence, intimidation, and harassment.” Neither CAIR nor the Muslim Brotherhood is listed as a terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department.
CAIR, a national Muslim civil rights organization, strongly rejected Abbott’s allegations, calling the designation “defamatory” and saying it is rooted in “debunked conspiracy theories.” The group said it has consistently condemned terrorism, noting that its national director has been targeted by ISIS. CAIR vowed to sue if the proclamation becomes enforceable policy, accusing Abbott of “advancing anti-Muslim bigotry.”
Abbott’s declaration relies on a new Texas law granting the governor expanded power to restrict property ownership linked to entities named in federal national security assessments. A similar law in Florida is currently moving through the courts, with the 11th Circuit allowing enforcement during legal challenges.
The proclamation sparked immediate backlash from Muslim advocacy organizations and civil liberties groups, which argue it infringes on constitutional protections. It remains unclear when or how Texas plans to enforce the ban, and whether legal challenges will delay or block implementation.
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