US Designates Muslim Brotherhood Organizations as Terrorist Groups

Decision Marks Escalation Against Israel’s Rivals

The United States has designated the Muslim Brotherhood organizations in Egypt, Lebanon, and Jordan as "terrorist" groups, according to a report by the Associated Press. This announcement comes as Washington intensifies its efforts against Israel's rivals globally. The decision was made public on Tuesday, just weeks after President Donald Trump issued an executive order instructing his administration to initiate the process of blacklisting these organizations.

“These designations reflect the initial actions of an ongoing and sustained effort to prevent the violence and destabilization caused by chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood wherever they occur,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a statement reported by AP. “The United States will use all available tools to deprive these chapters of the necessary resources to engage in or support terrorism.”

The designations make it illegal to provide material support to these groups. They also largely restrict the access of current and former members to the United States and impose economic sanctions aimed at curtailing their revenue streams.

Founded in 1928 by Egyptian Muslim scholar Hassan al-Banna, the Muslim Brotherhood has branches and affiliates across the Middle East, including political parties and social organizations.

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