Hamas-Linked Organization Fosters Arizona Senate Proclamation to Honor Fallen Muslim Lives

By Staff Reporter |

A contentious event unfolded in the Arizona Senate on Tuesday, where the Council on American-Islamic Relations Arizona chapter (CAIR-AZ) was invited as honored guests. The group has drawn scrutiny due to its ties to Hamas.

The Senate proceedings included a proclamation recognizing the humanitarian crises in Palestine, Lebanon, Sudan, and Congo. Titled SR1001, the proclamation designates February as “a month of remembrance and solidarity” for the lives lost in these regions.

“This is a historic step for the Muslim community and CAIR-AZ, as we have worked tirelessly to get this proclamation passed,” CAIR-AZ announced in an Instagram post. The segment began with a prayer led by Omar Al-Tawil, an imam from the Islamic Community Center of Tempe.

Senator Analise Ortiz introduced the proclamation, co-sponsored by several other senators. Following its passage, Ortiz was seen celebrating with CAIR-AZ representatives, prompting mixed reactions from the public.

Among the attendees were known figures like Khaled Beydoun, an Arizona State University law professor and pro-Hamas activist; Azza Abuseif, executive director of CAIR-AZ; and other community leaders from various activist organizations.

CAIR-AZ issued a press release claiming credit for the proclamation’s approval, emphasizing the need to remember those impacted by violence and conflict. “At a time when the world bears witness to immense suffering and injustice, it is crucial to recognize and remember those who have perished,” said Abuseif.

However, the group’s presence provoked backlash. Local residents voiced their discontent on social media, questioning the appropriateness of allowing perceived terrorist affiliations within the Senate. One comment expressed outrage over the perceived normalization of such groups on the Senate floor.

Beyond the proclamation, CAIR-AZ has been vocal against various immigration enforcement measures, opposing legislation known as the “Arizona ICE Act,” which permits local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. The organization also campaigned against Proposition 314, seeking to restrict government benefits based on immigration status.

Critics of CAIR-AZ point to its national affiliate, CAIR, which has been linked to the Muslim Brotherhood and associated with Hamas activities. Notably, CAIR leaders previously celebrated the October 7 attacks against Israel, raising alarms among detractors regarding their objectives.