U.S. imposes new sanctions targeting ISIS financing networks
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The United States on Monday announced a new package of sanctions aimed at disrupting financial networks linked to the financing of the Islamic State (ISIS).
In a statement, the U.S. State Department said, “Under the leadership of President Trump, the United States is dismantling ISIS’s ability to finance terrorism around the world.”
The statement added that Washington is seeking to cut off “the financial lifelines from around the world that enable ISIS to fund attacks, support its regional affiliates, and threaten civilians, including religious minorities.”
According to the State Department, the sanctions announced target three individuals and six entities operating across Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa. The designated individuals and organizations allegedly helped ISIS move funds across international borders, exposing a financial network stretching from France and Syria to Turkey and Nigeria.
“These actions reflect the United States’ unrelenting pressure on ISIS, which continues to decentralize its operations and rely on financial intermediaries to connect its global network.”
Among those sanctioned are a France-based individual accused of providing information to ISIS supporters on the use of explosives; a Syria-based operative who allegedly used cryptocurrencies to transfer funds to ISIS-linked associates in several countries, including the United States; and a Nigeria-based money exchange operator whose business was allegedly used as a channel for financing the group.
The State Department stressed that it will continue to employ all available diplomatic and legal tools to hold ISIS and its supporters accountable, regardless of where they operate or how they move funds.