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The United States has officially designated multiple branches of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations.

Some shit you should know before you dig in: If you’re unaware, the Muslim Brotherhood is a political and religious movement founded in Egypt in 1928 that has grown into a network of affiliated groups across the Middle East. It presents itself as a peaceful, grassroots organization focused on Islamic values, social services, and political participation. However, critics argue that while it operates openly as a civic or political group, it secretly supports or inspires extremist violence. Over the years, various governments and intelligence agencies have accused the Brotherhood of using its civilian face to mask ties to terrorist groups like Hamas, of planning sabotage or attacks, of raising funds for militants, and of attempting to destabilize governments in the region. While the Brotherhood officially denies any involvement in violence, many of its offshoots have been banned or declared terrorist organizations by countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

What’s going on now: In a notable development, the Treasury announced new terrorist designations targeting specific branches of the Muslim Brotherhood in Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt. The Lebanese branch received the most severe label, Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), making it illegal under US law to provide it with money, services, or other forms of support. The Jordanian and Egyptian branches were designated Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs), which trigger asset freezes and sanctions for anyone doing business with them. US officials said the move is part of a broader effort to cut off funding, logistics, and political cover for groups they say are tied to terrorism.

According to the US government, the main reason for the designations is alleged support for Hamas, which the US considers a terrorist organization. US officials claim the Lebanese Muslim Brotherhood’s armed wing took part in rocket attacks against Israel following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack. The Egyptian branch is accused of coordinating with Hamas, helping move fighters and funds, and calling for violent attacks against US partners. The Jordanian branch is alleged to have provided long-term material support, including fundraising, recruitment, and logistical help tied to militant activities.

The designations came after an executive order issued by President Trump, directing US agencies to identify Brotherhood chapters involved in violence or destabilization.