CAIR condemns Musk for calling US Muslim groups ‘terrorist organisations’ |
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has strongly condemned Elon Musk’s recent comments that labeled U.S. Muslim groups receiving USAID funds as “terrorist organisations.” The billionaire entrepreneur’s remarks, made in a retweet, have sparked outrage for perpetuating Islamophobia and endangering the safety of Muslim Americans.
Musk’s retweet featured a post that accused a number of US Muslim aid organisations of being tied to terrorism.
In his quote, Musk added, “As many people have said, why pay terrorist organisations and certain countries to hate us when they’re perfectly willing to do it for free?”
The post mentioned over a dozen American Muslim groups, including the Arab American Institute, Islamic Relief Agency, Muslim Aid, and the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund.
In response, CAIR, a civil rights group representing American Muslims, stated that the groups Musk criticized are “duly registered nonprofit organisations” and have the same right as any other charity to apply for federal funding. The group also pointed out that several of these organisations have previously partnered with the Trump administration.
“Anyone who sees the word ‘Islam’ in the name of an American charity and immediately labels it a ‘terrorist organisation’ is acting out of hate and ignorance,” said CAIR. “These organisations contribute significantly to society, especially in humanitarian work, and should not be disparaged based on baseless accusations.”
Photo: @elonmusk on X
“Reckless and Dangerous” Remarks
Nihad Awad, National Executive Director of CAIR, responded directly to Musk, calling his comments “reckless and dangerous.” He explained that such rhetoric not only fuels Islamophobia but also puts innocent lives at risk. “This kind of rhetoric undermines the values of justice and equality. Do better,” Awad said in his response.
Photo: @NihadAwad on X
In addition, CAIR urged Musk to shift his focus from defaming American Muslim organisations and address the use of US taxpayer money for military operations by Israel, particularly in Gaza, where thousands of innocent lives have been lost.
Musk, who also leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is currently overseeing a significant shakeup in US aid programs. On Sunday, the Trump administration announced the firing of 2,000 USAID workers and the suspension of thousands more globally.
The exchange has further polarized debates surrounding US foreign aid and the treatment of Muslim organisations. While Musk’s remarks have drawn condemnation from civil rights groups, some of his supporters argue that these organisations should face greater scrutiny for their ties to foreign entities. However, CAIR and other advocacy groups continue to stress that the accusations against these US-based charities are unfounded and harmful.
As tensions rise, the discourse around these issues is expected to intensify, with both sides standing firm in their opposing views. For now, CAIR’s call for accountability and responsible rhetoric remains central in the ongoing conversation.
