President Trump has reportedly moved to designate parts of the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, with an executive order allowing for potential sanctions against members of the group in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon. While no immediate actions were taken, this decision opens the door to financial restrictions and travel bans for the organization’s members. The move comes amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, where the Muslim Brotherhood has been a significant political force in several countries.
Protesters in Jordan recently held demonstrations, waving flags of the Muslim Brotherhood as they denounced the U.S.-led economic conference in Amman in 2019. The conference, which aimed to bolster economic partnerships in the region, was met with criticism from various groups, including the Muslim Brotherhood. The administration’s stance on the group reflects broader U.S. foreign policy considerations, balancing national security interests with diplomatic relations in the Middle East.
Analysts suggest that the potential designation of the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization could significantly impact its operations in the region. Financial sanctions could limit the group’s ability to fund its activities, while travel bans could hinder its leaders’ ability to engage in international affairs. However, such measures may also strain diplomatic ties with countries where the Muslim Brotherhood is influential, such as Egypt and Jordan.