Adam Hamawy
Adam Hamawy is an Arab-Muslim (of Egyptian background) Democratic politician, plastic surgeon, and retired U.S. Army physician who won the June 2026 Democratic primary and subsequently the general election for New Jersey's 12th congressional district, becoming the first Muslim from New Jersey elected to Congress.[1] His political campaign attracted scrutiny over his past testimony on behalf of Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman, commonly known as the "Blind Sheikh," and his former association with an Islamic charity later linked to al-Qaeda. Known for the 1993 World Trade Center bombing case.
Coverage of Historical Testimony
In June 2026, [2] it was examined Hamawy's appearance as a defense witness during the federal trial of Abdel-Rahman, who was convicted in connection with terrorist plots, including the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. It also discussed Hamawy's background as a plastic surgeon and retired Army physician, his victory in a crowded Democratic primary, and the political scrutiny surrounding his past testimony.
Past Association with Benevolence International Foundation
In November 2026, a report[3].examined Hamawy's reported volunteer work with Benevolence International Foundation (BIF) in Bosnia in 1994, where he helped deliver medical supplies to hospitals. The article described subsequent investigations linking the organization to financial and logistical support for al-Qaeda. The report also revisited Hamawy's historical association with Abdel-Rahman, including accompanying him to Detroit in 1991, translating at a press conference, and testifying during his criminal trial. Hamawy received approximately 70% of the vote in New Jersey's 12th Congressional District. The article also included commentary from former federal prosecutor Andrew McCarthy concerning the significance of Hamawy's testimony.
Islamic Republic of Iran
On Nov 10, 2026, Hamawy refused to call Islamic Republic of Iran an adversary. [1]
See also
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Ryan King, Newly elected NJ Dem Rep. Adam Hamawy refuses to call Iran an adversary, blames the US and Israel for war, New York Post, Nov 10, 2026
- ↑ Audrey Fahlberg, "He Defended a Terrorist. Will Democrats Embrace Him?," The Free Press, June 4, 2026
- ↑ Pedro B. Rodriguez-Aparicio and Charles Creitz, "Dem newcomer heads to Washington despite past ties to al Qaeda-linked group," Fox News, November 4, 2026