The California Democratic lawmaker is encountering criticism after hosting a group linked to Hamas in his Capitol office last week.
Congressman Derek Tran welcomed leaders from the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) during National Muslim Advocacy Day, an annual event organized by Muslim advocacy groups.
CAIR, the largest Muslim civil rights organization in the U.S., was recently labeled a terrorist organization by Texas and Florida due to allegations of providing funds to Hamas. In response, the group filed a defamation lawsuit against the governors of both states.
Among the attendees was Hassam Ailush, the executive director of CAIR’s Los Angeles branch, who has faced backlash for controversial remarks about Israel, including statements suggesting it “should be attacked.”
Tran mentioned his pride in hosting CAIR for a discussion on combating Islamophobia and defending civil rights for all community members in a post on Wednesday. Ailush noted that Tran has quickly gained respect in his district.
However, social media users were quick to criticize Tran’s support for CAIR. Comments included harsh accusations like “You’re literally hosting terrorists.” This event occurred shortly after CAIR announced it would support Tran’s candidacy for the 2024 election in the district he narrowly won against Republican Michelle Steele.
CAIR has historically been accused of anti-Israel sentiments. Following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, Ailush claimed that it was a myth that Israel had the right to defend itself, asserting, “The occupiers never have the right to defend themselves.” He further stated that “Israel should be attacked,” arguing that those occupying land can be legitimately resisted under international law.
Other CAIR leaders have made similar comments. CAIR Executive Director Nihad Awad reportedly expressed satisfaction about the events in Gaza on October 7, claiming that the people there have a right to self-defense, while Israel does not.
Moreover, it’s noteworthy that in 2007, CAIR was named an unindicted co-conspirator in the Holy Land Foundation trial, where members were convicted of funneling funds to Hamas in the early 2000s.
