Pro-Trump Arab Organization Ditches Trump

A prominent Arab American group that supported President Trump during his 2024 campaign has changed its name, citing a desire for a fresh direction after comments made by the president about Gaza. Originally named “Arab Americans for Trump,” the group has now rebranded itself as “Arab Americans for Peace.” According to Bishara Bahbah, the group’s chair, the name change had been under consideration for some time, with the goal of shifting focus onto a positive and constructive movement rather than solely supporting the president’s campaign.

The decision to rename the organization comes amid recent controversy surrounding Trump’s remarks about the future of Gaza. During a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Trump suggested the idea of relocating Palestinians from Gaza, a comment that sparked significant backlash from various corners. While Bahbah clarified that the group’s name change was not directly linked to Trump’s statement, he acknowledged the connection to the broader conversation about peace in the region. The group, while appreciative of Trump’s support in the past, made it clear that they reject any notion of forcibly removing Palestinians from Gaza, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and just resolution to the conflict.

“Peace has always been our main goal,” Bahbah explained, emphasizing that the group remains committed to promoting solutions that lead to peaceful coexistence in the Middle East. While the organization valued its relationship with Trump and his efforts to broker a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, it reiterated its support for a two-state solution, where both Israel and Palestine can live side by side in peace.

The group also stressed that it does not endorse Trump’s plan for Gaza’s economic development at the expense of Palestinian rights. They firmly believe that any efforts to rebuild Gaza should be aimed at making it a livable place for Palestinians and not for external interests.

As part of its ongoing outreach, the organization played a key role in mobilizing Arab American voters during the 2024 election, especially in critical swing states such as Michigan, where Trump won significant support, including from the Arab American community in Dearborn. Moving forward, the group hopes to build upon this momentum to support the cause of peace and advocate for policies that respect the rights of all people in the region.

Bahbah also expressed a hope that President Trump would engage with Palestinian leadership, particularly President Mahmoud Abbas, to explore a more balanced approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Despite differing views, Bahbah remains optimistic about the potential for peace if all parties are committed to dialogue and mutual respect.

In their new direction, Arab Americans for Peace is focused on a vision of long-term peace and stability, rejecting any policies that involve the displacement or oppression of Palestinian people. Their commitment to a two-state solution remains central to their mission as they continue to push for a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace, security, and mutual respect.