A New Jersey congressional hopeful, identified as Hamawy, is under fire after revelations that he volunteered with a Chicago‑based nonprofit later shut down for aiding al‑Qaeda, and that he testified in favor of the Blind Sheikh, the mastermind behind the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

Al‑Qaeda‑Linked Volunteering in Bosnia Raises Red Flags

According to the report, Hamawy spent time in Bosnia with the Benevolence International Foundation, a Chicago‑based nonprofit that was later closed for providing logistical support to al‑Qaeda. The source notes that the organization’s ties to terrorism were uncovered after investigations into the 1993 bombing scheme that targeted multiple New York City landmarks.

Testimony for the Blind Sheikh Sparks Voter Outrage

The report says Hamawy testified in favor of Omar Abdel‑Rahman, the Blind Sheikh, during the Sheikh’s trial, and that he accompanied the terrorist on a trip and translated documents for him.. Prosecutor Andrew McCarthy, who helped convict the Blind Sheikh, described the breadth of the case, noting plans for simultaneous bombings of the Lincoln and Holland Tunnels, the FBI’s lower Manhattan headquarters, the United Nations complex, and an American military installation.

Gaza Hospital Work Lifts Democratic Support, But Not Enough

Despite Hamawy’s volunteer work at a Gaza hospital during the Israel‑Hamas conflict, which earned him support from Democrats, critics argue that his extremist ties outweigh any humanitarian efforts. the source highlights that the candidate’s plastic‑surgery background has not shielded him from scrutiny.

Legal Expert Questions Motivations Behind Extremist Credentials

Legal commentator Daniel Benson , cited in the report,suggested that Hamawy’s actions reflect a desire for prestige within extremist circles, noting that during the Soviet‑Afghan war era, participation in jihad became a status marker among certain activist groups in the United States.

Who Is the Unnamed Benefactor Behind the Volunteering?

The source raises the question of who funded Hamawy’s trips to Bosnia and Gaza, noting that the two events are unlikely to be coincidental. No names have yet emerged, leaving voters uncertain about the extent of external influence.

What Does This Mean for New Jersey’s 9/11 Legacy?

The report emphasizes that New Jersey lost over 700 residents in the September 11 attacks, adding emotional weight to the debate over whether a candidate with such ties should represent the state. The source calls for a reassessment of the vetting process for political nominees.