The Texas chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Texas), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the arrests of suspects allegedly involved in a plot to attack a Houston-area synagogue and strongly condemned recent hate graffiti targeting a synagogue in Austin.

According to media reports, law enforcement authorities thwarted a planned attack on a Houston synagogue and arrested suspects in connection with the plot.

At the same time, CAIR-Texas expressed deep concern over reports of antisemitic graffiti discovered at a synagogue in Austin, calling the incident part of a troubling rise in hate incidents targeting religious communities.

In a statement, CAIR-Texas said:

“We welcome the arrest of those allegedly involved in this disturbing plot and commend law enforcement for their vigilance in protecting lives. Houses of worship must always remain safe spaces, free from fear and intimidation.

“We also strongly condemn the hateful graffiti targeting a synagogue in Austin. Acts of antisemitism and all other forms of bigotry have no place in our society. Such incidents harm not only the targeted community but the fabric of our entire nation.

“We stand in solidarity with our Jewish neighbors and reaffirm our shared commitment to confronting hate, promoting mutual respect, and ensuring the safety and dignity of all people, regardless of faith or background.”

Last week, CAIR-Houston welcomed reports that a Houston police officer has been removed from duty following the circulation of a video allegedly showing the officer engaged in a rant in which she repeatedly used the “N-Word” and racial slurs.

He added that Washington, D.C., based CAIR and the American Muslim community stand in solidarity with all those challenging antisemitism, systemic anti-Black racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, white supremacy, and all other forms of bigotry.  

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. 

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos. 

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CONTACT:  CAIR-Austin Operations Manager, Shaimaa Zayan, szayan@cair.com, 512-785-7105; CAIR-Houston Director, Imran Ghani, ighani@cair.com, 713-922-5270; CAIR Texas Civic Engagement Organizer, Sameeha Rizvi, srizvi@cair.com, 512-893-1371; CAIR National Communications Director, Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Manager, Ismail Allison, 202-770-6280, iallison@cair.com