Former President Donald Trump has criticized Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, for his connection to Muslim cleric Asad Zaman, who has been associated with pro-Hitler rhetoric and anti-Israel sentiments.

Trump's criticism, delivered on Thursday, centered on Walz’s past praise for Zaman, whom he referred to as a “master teacher” during a 2018 event hosted by the Muslim American Society of Minnesota, and the former president also drew attention to Zaman’s controversial history, which includes sharing pro-Hitler content and making anti-Israel statements, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Walz Praised Zaman as “Master Teacher”

During his speech, Trump referenced an exclusive report by the Examiner, which detailed Walz’s commendation of Zaman. The former president emphasized that Walz had praised a man with a troubling history, stating, “He’s praised a Hitler-supporting radical Muslim imam named Asad Zaman, calling him a ‘master teacher.’”

The remarks from Walz that Trump referred to were made in 2018 at an event organized by the Muslim American Society of Minnesota. Walz, speaking about Zaman, said, “I am a teacher, so when I see a master teacher, I know it. Over the time we’ve spent together, one of the things I’ve had the privilege of is seeing the things in life through the eye of a master teacher, to try and get the understanding.” This statement has become a focal point of Trump’s criticism.

Asad Zaman’s Controversial History

Zaman has been a controversial figure due to his past actions and statements. In 2015, he shared a link to an article promoting a pro-Hitler film, an action that has been condemned by various organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).

The ADL described Zaman as having “a troubling history of playing into classic anti-Jewish themes and justifying violence against Israel.”

In addition to his past actions, Zaman recently expressed support for Palestinians in the aftermath of the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, which resulted in the death of 1,200 Israelis. His comments and actions have drawn significant backlash, particularly from Jewish organizations and leaders.

Zaman Responds To Backlash

Zaman, in response to the criticism, issued a statement on Wednesday blaming the backlash on the “MAGA camp,” a reference to Trump’s supporters. However, he did not dispute the details of the Examiner’s report.

Trump, in his speech, further highlighted the potential consequences of Walz’s association with Zaman. He suggested that if Walz and Kamala Harris were elected, individuals with radical views could influence U.S. foreign policy.

“If Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are elected, the radical-left flag burners and Hamas sympathizers will not just be causing chaos on our streets. They’ll be running U.S. foreign policy in the White House, and Israel will be gone,” Trump warned.

Trump Ties Walz’s Actions to Broader Political Concerns

Throughout his speech, Trump tied Walz’s relationship with Zaman to broader concerns about the influence of radical ideologies within the Democratic Party. He painted a picture of a future where such ideologies could shape U.S. policy, particularly concerning Israel and the Middle East.

Trump’s remarks are part of a broader strategy to appeal to Jewish voters and others concerned about anti-Semitism and radicalism. By focusing on Walz’s association with Zaman, Trump aimed to draw a sharp contrast between his stance on Israel and that of his political opponents.

Anti-Defamation League Condemns Zaman

The Anti-Defamation League’s condemnation of Zaman has added weight to Trump’s criticism. The ADL has been vocal in its opposition to Zaman’s past actions, particularly his promotion of pro-Hitler content and his justifications for violence against Israel.

The controversy surrounding Zaman and his association with Walz has sparked a heated debate about the influence of radical ideologies in American politics. Trump’s remarks have brought this issue to the forefront of the political conversation as the election draws closer.

Walz’s Response To The Controversy

As of now, Walz has not directly responded to Trump’s comments or the renewed focus on his past praise of Zaman. However, the controversy has placed him under increased scrutiny as the Democratic vice-presidential nominee.

The situation continues to develop, with both sides likely to use this controversy to further their political goals. Trump’s criticism of Walz is expected to resonate with voters who are concerned about the influence of radical ideologies, particularly those that are seen as anti-Israel.

Conclusion

The controversy over Gov. Tim Walz’s association with Asad Zaman has become a significant point of discussion in the political landscape.

Former President Donald Trump’s sharp criticism of Walz for his past praise of Zaman highlights the broader concerns about radical influences in American politics. As the election approaches, this issue is likely to remain a focal point, with both sides leveraging it to appeal to their respective voter bases.