Rep. Ilhan Omar’s campaign has reportedly transferred over $1,000 to a nonprofit in Washington, D.C., linked to a Palestinian university that has possible connections to terrorism, based on recent Federal Election Commission filings examined by Fox News Digital.
This nonprofit, known as Palestinian Freedom House or Dar al-Hariya, is located just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol.
A video featured on the organization’s website outlines its goals, which include “liberation of Palestine,” dismantling what they describe as “Palestinian apartheid,” and creating a democratic state spanning the region from river to sea.
The website claims that Israel functions as an apartheid state and expresses a commitment to launching an educational initiative directed at officials, media, and the public. The aim is to promote the idea that dismantling apartheid and establishing equal rights in Palestine is beneficial for all.
Omar’s campaign, Ilhan for Congress, reported spending $1,559.25 on “event tickets” related to the Palestinian Freedom House in September, but the nature of the event isn’t specified.
Earlier this year, Palestine Freedom House drew attention for hosting a fundraiser for Birzeit University in June. The university has been accused of having ties to terrorist activities, with pro-Hamas students dominating the student council elections.
The student council at Birzeit has historically been controlled by the Hamas-affiliated Al Wafa bloc, a group previously referred to as the “terrorist university.” Reports indicate that a recent campus event featured students with mock suicide vests and rocket launchers.
Fox News Digital found that the Hamas-aligned Al-Wafa bloc has consistently enjoyed success in student council elections since the 1990s, including wins in the last two years. Following a victory in 2023, a high-ranking Hamas official reportedly claimed it signified an “extension” of their influence.
In comments to the Middle East Monitor, Ismail Haniyeh, the former political director of Hamas, stated that the group is “invincible” in its territory and is prepared to stand against what they see as occupation and oppression. This isn’t the first instance where Hamas officials have celebrated the electoral successes of the Al Wafa bloc.
Representative Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) and Tim Wahlberg (R-Mich.) raised concerns in a letter to Harvard University about its prior collaborations with Birzeit, labeling it a school where student support for Hamas is prevalent and that promotes a U.S.-designated terrorist organization.
The Harvard Crimson reported that Harvard had decided not to renew its collaboration agreement with Birzeit after an internal evaluation.
A promotional flyer for the June event indicated that all funds raised would support Birzeit University.
Omar, who became one of the first Muslim women elected to Congress in 2018, has faced significant backlash over statements deemed anti-American and anti-Semitic. Notable among her controversial remarks were references to the 9/11 attacks and Israel. Although she later apologized for her Israel comments, they have lingered in public debates.
A recent vote to condemn her remarks about Charlie Kirk’s assassination narrowly missed passing in the House.
Fox News Digital attempted to reach out for comments from Harvard University, Palestinian Freedom House, and Omar’s office, but received no response before publication.
