Former President Donald Trump has taken significant steps toward designating chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations. This move marks a substantial shift in United States policy toward the influential Islamist group.
Executive Order Initiates Review Process
On November 25, 2025, Trump signed an executive order directing key administration officials to begin the formal review process. The order specifically mandates Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to prepare and submit a comprehensive report assessing whether specific Muslim Brotherhood affiliates should receive terrorist designation.
According to a White House fact sheet released alongside the executive order, the review will focus on Muslim Brotherhood chapters operating in several Middle Eastern nations. The investigation will particularly examine groups in Lebanon, Egypt, and Jordan to determine if they meet the criteria for terrorist organization designation under US law.
Potential Implications for Regional Politics
This development could have far-reaching consequences for US relations with Middle Eastern governments. Countries like Egypt, which has previously banned the Muslim Brotherhood and designated it as a terrorist organization, might welcome this move. However, nations with significant Muslim Brotherhood political presence could face diplomatic complications.
The terrorist designation would trigger severe consequences for any designated organizations. Financial sanctions would immediately freeze US-based assets, and members would become ineligible for US visas. American citizens and organizations would be prohibited from providing any material support to designated groups.
Historical Context and Future Steps
The Muslim Brotherhood, founded in Egypt in 1928, has evolved into a transnational Islamist movement with varying degrees of influence across multiple countries. While some Western nations have considered similar designations in the past, the United States has previously stopped short of labeling the entire organization as terrorist.
The review process initiated by Trump's executive order is expected to take several months. Officials must gather intelligence, assess evidence, and determine whether each chapter meets the legal criteria for designation. The final decision will rest with the Secretary of State following the completion of the comprehensive report.
This policy move represents a significant development in US counterterrorism strategy and could reshape American diplomatic relationships across the Middle East and North Africa region.
