The Democratic Party’s left wing scored another victory this week as Adam Hamawy, an Egypt-born former combat surgeon and Iraq War veteran, won the Democratic primary for New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District. With the district heavily favoring Democrats, Hamawy is now considered the overwhelming favorite to succeed retiring Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman in Congress.
Hamawy’s victory was fueled by support from some of the most progressive figures in American politics, including Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, Ro Khanna, and Sen. Bernie Sanders. His outspoken criticism of Israel and support from the party’s progressive base helped distinguish him in a crowded primary field.
However, as Hamawy transitions into the general election campaign, renewed attention is being focused on parts of his past that critics say deserve closer examination.
One area attracting scrutiny involves Hamawy’s 1994 internship with the Benevolence International Foundation while in Bosnia. The organization was later identified in the 9/11 Commission Report as part of a network that allegedly provided financial and logistical support to terrorist activities connected to Osama bin Laden during the 1990s.
A Democrat with terror ties linked to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing is on track to become one of New Jersey’s next congressmen.
Adam Hamawy won a crowded Democratic primary in New Jersey’s 12th District and is heavily favored to win the general election in November.
The… pic.twitter.com/0ml7elMNcB
— Fox News (@FoxNews) June 3, 2026
Federal authorities also alleged in court filings that the organization served as a front for Al Qaeda operations in Europe. While those allegations have fueled criticism, it is important to note that Hamawy has never been charged with or accused of participating in terrorism-related activities. His campaign has vigorously rejected any attempt to link him personally to the organization’s later controversies.
Questions have also resurfaced regarding Hamawy’s past association with Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman, commonly known as the “Blind Sheikh.” Abdel-Rahman was convicted in 1995 of seditious conspiracy following the 1993 World Trade Center bombing carried out by his followers.
During Abdel-Rahman’s trial, Hamawy appeared as a defense witness. According to trial transcripts, he challenged claims made by government witnesses and argued that some statements attributed to the cleric were being taken out of context. Critics argue that voters deserve a fuller explanation of why Hamawy chose to testify on behalf of a man who would later become one of the most notorious extremists in modern American history.
Steven Emerson, founder of the Investigative Project on Terrorism, has been among those raising concerns. He argues that Hamawy’s testimony warrants further scrutiny as the congressional candidate seeks higher office.
Hamawy’s campaign has responded forcefully. Representatives for the candidate point to his distinguished military career, including his service as a combat surgeon in Iraq, where he famously helped save the life of Sen. Tammy Duckworth after a helicopter crash. The campaign has also emphasized that Hamawy condemns terrorism, violence, and extremism in all forms.
The controversy arrives at a time when Democrats are already facing criticism over divisions within the party regarding Israel and Middle East policy. As the general election approaches, Hamawy’s supporters will likely focus on his military service and medical career, while opponents are expected to continue highlighting questions surrounding his past associations.
His primary victory may have secured his path toward Congress, but it also ensures that these issues will remain part of the political conversation in the months ahead.
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