In a stunning revelation, it has come to light that a federal program designed to assist nonprofit organizations in safeguarding against terrorist attacks has directed millions of dollars to mosques and Islamic groups with questionable affiliations and alarming rhetoric. A review by the Washington Free Beacon has exposed how the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grants Program has funded institutions with ties to individuals who have openly praised terrorists and advocated for the destruction of Israel.
One striking example is the California-based Masjid al-Ansar mosque, which received $100,000 under the program. The mosque’s imam, Moustafa Kamel, has been quoted making disparaging remarks about Jews, referring to them as a “bigoted and arrogant breed of people” and expressing a desire for their annihilation in a conflict over the Holy Land. These revelations raise concerns about the potential misuse of taxpayer funds, especially when allocated to entities that espouse divisive and violent ideologies.
The Islamic Center of Detroit is another recipient, having obtained $150,000 in October 2022. Its head imam, Imran Salha, openly expressed sentiments at a pro-Palestinian rally, calling for the burning of the state of Israel. Such rhetoric is not only inflammatory but has the potential to incite hate and inspire terrorist acts, undermining the very purpose of the Homeland Security grants.
Critics argue that the lack of proper oversight in the distribution of these funds is a significant issue. While many synagogues, churches, mosques, and temples that do not endorse violence have received grants, there are instances where organizations with questionable associations, like the Islamic Center of San Diego, have been awarded substantial sums. The potential misuse of funds by these entities could inadvertently contribute to the rise of hate crimes and terrorism, directly contradicting the program’s intended goals.
The Department of Homeland Security’s response to these revelations remains unclear, but lawmakers are demanding increased scrutiny and accountability in the allocation of funds. The concern is that taxpayer dollars meant to enhance security against terrorist threats are inadvertently being channeled to entities that may harbor or promote extremist ideologies, potentially putting national security at risk.