US Muslim group sues Florida’s DeSantis over ‘terrorism’ designation

Al JazeeraCenterEN 4 min read 100% complete by Ali HarbDecember 16, 2025 at 08:57 PM

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) sued Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in federal court on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, over his recent designation of the organization as a "foreign terrorist organization." CAIR argues that DeSantis's executive order violates its free speech rights and aims to suppress its advocacy for Palestine. The lawsuit states that the order lacks legal basis, relies on political rhetoric, and targets the group due to its viewpoints. DeSantis has stated he welcomes the lawsuit, believing it will grant the state subpoena power over CAIR's financial records. CAIR contends that DeSantis's response demonstrates a pre-existing bias and that the order is intended to deter their advocacy.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Muslim Brotherhood 40% Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) ×250% United States 60% Palestine ×360% Florida ×480% Ron DeSantis ×890% Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) ×995%

Keywords

lawsuit 90% cair 90% terrorism designation 80% ron desantis 70% palestine advocacy 70% free speech 70% executive order 60% muslim group 60% islamophobia 50% civil rights 50%