In response to the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, the United States, in collaboration with the United Kingdom, has implemented a third round of sanctions targeting individuals associated with Hamas. The goal is to diminish the organization’s financial capabilities and disrupt its funding channels.
The sanctions specifically identify key figures within Hamas, shedding light on the channels through which Iran supports both Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). The coordinated effort aims to protect the global financial system from potential misuse by those supporting Hamas.
Janet Yellen, the Secretary of the Treasury, underscored the commitment of the United States to collaborate with international partners in preventing Hamas from acquiring and using funds for destructive activities. Yellen stated that the U.S. will continue working with allies like the UK to thwart Hamas from raising and utilizing funds for its atrocities.
In a press release, the U.S. Treasury highlighted the significant role played by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in empowering Hamas. The IRGC has been implicated in providing financial assistance, weapons, and operational training to both Hamas and PIJ, enabling their terrorist activities.
The sanctions involve blocking the property and interests of the designated individuals in the U.S. or under American control. Entities owned 50 percent or more by these blocked persons are also subject to restrictions. Financial institutions and other entities engaging in transactions with sanctioned individuals may also face potential sanctions or enforcement actions. Prohibitions include contributing funds, goods, or services to or from designated persons.
Despite these measures, legal humanitarian aid will continue to reach disadvantaged communities without funding malicious actors, the U.S. Treasury release states.
(With ANI inputs)