American Muslims for Palestine (AMP)
Founded in 2006 by Hatem Bazian, American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) has been a leading force in the antisemitic BDS campaign against Israel, spearheading multiple campaigns to economically isolate the Jewish state. The organization has been referred to as the “most important sponsor and organizer” of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP).
AMP’s leadership has frequently engaged in rhetoric that promotes antisemitic tropes and support for violence against Israel. Notably, the organization praised Hamas for the October 7, 2023 attack. AMP’s Executive Director, Osama Abuirshaid, has made several antisemitic statements. In a September 2021 interview, he referred to Israel as “a parasite living off the American body,” invoking a classic antisemitic trope. In February 2018, Abuirshaid embraced the antisemitic Khazar theory.
AMP has also called for a boycott of mainstream Jewish organizations such as Jewish Federations and the Jewish Community Relations Council. This is a direct attempt to isolate and marginalize the Jewish community in the US.
The organization’s influence extends to college campuses through its close association with SJP, which has been a driving force in the sharp rise in antisemitic incidents on campuses across the nation.
According to an FBI memorandum, a current board member of AMP was implicated in Hamas activity in the 1990s. Furthermore, AMP has been linked to the Holy Land Foundation, which was found guilty of providing over $12 million to support terrorism.
The U.S. Congress, led by the House Oversight Committee, has launched investigations into AMP’s funding and potential terrorist connections. The organization also faces legal scrutiny, including civil lawsuits alleging Hamas ties and an investigation by the Virginia Attorney General.
Sources:
https://www.adl.org/resources/article/who-are-primary-groups-behind-us-anti-israel-rallies
https://www.adl.org/resources/backgrounder/american-muslims-palestine-amp
https://canarymission.org/organization/American_Muslims_For_Palestine