In a major geopolitical development, United States President Donald Trump has signed an executive order initiating the process to officially classify specific chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organisations. This move marks one of Washington’s strongest stances yet against the influential Islamist group that has shaped political landscapes across the Middle East for nearly a century.
The executive order directly cites chapters operating in Lebanon, Egypt and Jordan, accusing them of engaging in or supporting violence and destabilisation efforts that threaten regional security, American citizens, and broader US interests.
Founded in Egypt in 1928 by Hassan al-Banna, the Muslim Brotherhood grew into a powerful pan-Islamist movement rooted in a vision of social reform and resistance to Western colonial influence. Over the decades, the group established branches across the Arab world, gaining strong followings—especially in countries such as Jordan and Egypt.
Under the new order, US officials may enforce measures such as freezing financial assets, restricting travel, and blocking any form of support linked to the identified Brotherhood chapters. The responsibility now lies with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to complete the official designation process.
The organisation has long faced varying degrees of persecution across the Middle East. Egypt outlawed it in 2013 following the overthrow of President Mohamed Morsi, a key Brotherhood figure. Saudi Arabia and several Gulf states have also banned the group. Jordan dissolved the Brotherhood legally in 2020, yet it continued to draw strong grassroots support until authorities escalated actions earlier this year, accusing the group of weapon stockpiling and plans to destabilise the kingdom.
The new US order has ignited international reactions. Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon expressed strong approval, stating that the decision benefits Israel and regional Arab nations that have “suffered from Muslim Brotherhood terrorism for decades.”
Elsewhere, concerns surrounding the Brotherhood’s influence have also prompted action. Earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron directed his administration to develop strategies to curb the organisation’s reach within France.
Beyond the political headlines, this evolving story reflects the complex struggle between ideological movements, state authority and regional security. As new policies reshape global dynamics, what remains clear is that decisions made in power centers ripple across the lives of ordinary people, often in ways they never chose but must navigate.
