Texas Governor Ted Abbott has announced a complete ban on Sharia laws and Sharia-compliant communities across the state, in a move that has sparked widespread debate.
The declaration came shortly after a video showing protesters advocating for Sharia law went viral.
Mr. Abbott revealed the decision on X (formerly Twitter), stressing that no one in Texas should feel intimidated by attempts to impose religious laws.
“I signed laws that BAN Sharia Law and Sharia Compounds in Texas,” the governor said. “No business and no individual should fear fools like this.”
The announcement was prompted by footage from Houston, where an Islamic cleric was seen leading protesters and demanding shopkeepers stop selling alcohol, pork, and lottery tickets.
Speaking through a megaphone, the cleric said: “People should not violate the religion of Islam by selling products that are against our religion. Because we should love what Allah loves and hate what Allah hates.
We will be visiting all the stores in the neighbourhood where the religion of Islam is ignored.”
The video quickly gained traction online, drawing criticism and concern over potential enforcement of religious rules on communities.
Governor Abbott emphasized that any attempt to enforce Sharia law would be treated as a violation of Texas law.
“If this person, or ANYONE, attempts to impose Sharia compliance, report it to local law enforcement or the Texas Dept. of Public Safety,” he warned.
Furthermore, the governor reassured residents that Texas laws protect businesses and individuals from what he described as “threats against freedom and security.”
The incident has fueled debate across Texas, with critics warning of rising religious tensions.
Some residents expressed concern about freedom of speech, while others supported the governor’s firm stance.
Moreover, civil rights advocates have urged caution, warning that the policy could unfairly target Muslim communities.
However, Abbott’s allies argue the law is necessary to safeguard Texas from parallel legal systems.
This development adds to ongoing national discussions about religious freedom and state law.
While Sharia law has no legal standing in the U.S., symbolic declarations of Sharia-compliant towns or neighborhoods have previously stirred controversy in other states.
