WASHINGTON – Senator John Cornyn is facing criticism for his past endorsements of Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA), the American branch of Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW), after the State Department severed ties with IRW in 2021 due to concerns over alleged praise of terrorists and antisemitism.

Cornyn, engaged in a heated primary runoff against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, has repeatedly praised IRUSA's humanitarian work. However, his support for the organization is now under the microscope given IRW's controversial history and alleged links to radical elements.

In a May 2021 video address, Cornyn thanked his "friends at Islamic Relief USA for all their humanitarian work." A year later, he penned a letter recognizing and thanking IRUSA for their work across Texas and the nation. In 2023, he again referred to IRUSA as "friends" and commended the group for its dedication.

The State Department's decision to cut ties with IRW highlights the seriousness of the situation. In December 2020, the State Department stated it witnessed "a rise in anti-Semitism in every corner of the globe" and cited "blatant and horrifying anti-Semitism and glorification of violence exhibited at the most senior levels of IRW." They further encouraged government bodies examining IRW activities and their relationship with IRW.

Islamic Relief USA has attempted to distance itself from IRW, arguing that the conduct of its parent organization has significantly damaged its reputation. However, critics argue that the connection between the two organizations raises legitimate concerns about potential funding channels and ideological alignment.

Both IRUSA and IRW have faced scrutiny regarding their ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, a multinational Islamist political movement. Some branches of the Muslim Brotherhood have been designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the United States. The Middle East Forum has unearthed social media posts and photographs suggesting that leaders at both organizations have historically maintained connections to the Muslim Brotherhood and expressed hostility toward Jewish people.

Khaled Lamada, a former chairman of Islamic Relief USA, reportedly circulated a text in 2014 praising the "Mujahidin of Egypt" for inflicting defeats on Jews through "jihad." His past statements and affiliations raise serious questions about the vetting processes and oversight mechanisms within IRUSA.

Cornyn's support for IRUSA, despite these well-documented concerns, could be perceived as a lapse in judgment and a failure to adequately vet organizations involved in sensitive areas such as international aid and religious outreach. This issue is particularly relevant given the ongoing threat of radical Islamic terrorism and the need for vigilance in identifying and countering extremist ideologies.

As Cornyn faces a challenge from Paxton, this controversy could resonate with conservative voters concerned about national security and the potential for political endorsements to inadvertently support groups with questionable ties. Voters expect their elected officials to exercise sound judgment and prioritize the safety and security of the nation.

The Cornyn campaign has not yet responded to requests for comment. The primary runoff election is scheduled for May 28, 2026.

The issue highlights the importance of due diligence and critical examination of organizations claiming to do charitable work. It is vital to ensure that such entities adhere to American values and do not harbor or promote ideologies that threaten national security or religious freedom.