US and Britain Impose New Sanctions on Hamas & Palestinian Islamic Jihad
Efforts Rise To Subdue Iranian-Linked Terrorism
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November 15, 2023
The United States and Britain have announced a third round of sanctions targeting the Palestinian militant group Hamas and its ally, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). These measures aim to curb Iranian funding of the groups following their recent attack on Israel.
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen emphasized the objective of denying Hamas the means to carry out its atrocities by cutting off its financial resources. She stated, "Hamas's actions have caused immense suffering and shown that terrorism does not occur in isolation."
Yellen further explained that the sanctions will degrade Hamas's financial infrastructure, block new funding channels, and sever their ties to external sources of funding. The goal is to cripple the group's ability to finance their heinous acts.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the aim of protecting the international financial system from abuse by Hamas and its enablers. He specifically pointed out Iran's support of Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad through its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran provides funds, weapons, and operational training to these groups, contributing to their terrorist activities.
Blinken also revealed that Iran has trained PIJ fighters in missile production and development in Gaza. Additionally, Iran funds groups that provide financial support to PIJ-affiliated fighters.
Israel, which designates Hamas as a terrorist group, has accused them of killing 1,200 people and taking 240 hostages in the recent attack on the Jewish state. So far, only four hostages have been released.
In response, Israel has carried out air attacks, resulting in the deaths of more than 11,000 Palestinians, including numerous women and children, according to Hamas medical authorities.
The designation of Hamas as a terrorist group is not limited to Israel. The United States, the European Union, Britain, and other countries also classify Hamas as a terrorist organization.
As sanctions are imposed, the international community seeks to isolate Hamas and PIJ, cutting off their access to funding and resources. By targeting Iran's support, the US and UK hope to weaken these Palestinian militant groups and prevent further acts of violence.
The sanctions are part of a broader effort to protect global security and maintain stability in the region. By disrupting the financial infrastructure of Hamas and its allies, the international community aims to deter future attacks and promote peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.