WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order directing U.S. agencies to begin the formal process of designating certain chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organisations.
The move targets specific chapters in Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt, aligning with policies already adopted by several countries in the region, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and, most recently, Jordan in April 2025.
According to the order, the Muslim Brotherhood has evolved into a “transnational network” since its founding in Egypt in 1928. It alleges that various chapters have engaged in or supported violent campaigns, undermining regional stability, threatening U.S. citizens, and harming American interests.
The White House document specifically cited activities of the Brotherhood’s chapters in Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt. It referenced the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, noting that the Lebanese chapter “joined Hamas, Hezbollah, and Palestinian factions to launch multiple rocket attacks against both civilian and military targets.”
It further highlighted statements from leaders of the Egyptian chapter calling for attacks on U.S. partners and interests, and the Jordanian chapter’s alleged provision of material support to Hamas’ militant wing.
Trump’s order instructs relevant agencies to take measures to “deprive these chapters of resources and end any threat” posed to U.S. national security. It also sets a clear timeline: within 30 days, the Secretaries of State and Treasury must submit a joint report assessing which chapters merit designation. Within the following 45 days, agencies are directed to take all necessary action under the Immigration and Nationality Act and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to formalize these designations.
The Muslim Brotherhood, founded in 1928, has long been a subject of debate within U.S. policymaking circles. While some chapters operate as political parties, others have faced accusations of supporting militant groups. Previous U.S. administrations avoided blanket designations, citing the organisation’s diverse branches and potential political consequences.
Trump’s order is notable for evaluating chapters individually rather than treating the Brotherhood as a single entity. Last week, Texas Governor Greg Abbott similarly designated the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organisation at the state level, reflecting a broader Republican effort to address perceived security threats posed by the group.
