US Asks UK To Strengthen Sanctions Against Hamas: What You Need To Know

A top official from the Biden administration called on the U.K. government to strengthen its sanctions against the militant organization Hamas in light of its recent actions in Israel.

During a visit to London, U.S. Department of Treasury Deputy Secretary Wally Adeyemo unveiled a fresh set of U.S. sanctions pinpointing individuals and financial structures linked to Hamas, Politico reported.

"Today’s action targets additional assets in Hamas’s investment portfolio and individuals who facilitate sanctions evasion,” Adeyemo stated at London's Royal United Services Institute defense think tank.

Adeyemo, who is on a diplomatic tour covering London, Brussels, and Berlin, emphasized collaboration with the U.K. in these efforts.

Adeyemo mentioned his scheduled meetings with top British officials, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's national security advisor, to synchronize and implement new sanctions aimed at disrupting financial support to Hamas.

He highlighted the close ties between the U.S. and the U.K., remarking, "In this work, the United States has no better partners than the United Kingdom,” and alluded to the solidarity shown by both nations in imposing sanctions on Russia after its Ukraine invasion earlier in 2022.

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Adeyemo pointed out Iran's significant role in backing Hamas both financially and operationally, stating, “Today’s designations also underscore the critical role Iran plays in providing financial, logistical, and operational support to Hamas."

The new sanctions list includes Khaled Qaddoumi, Hamas' representative in Iran, entities under the control of Sudan-based Hamas financier Abdelbasit Hamza Elhassan Mohamed Khair and the Gaza-based Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ)-affiliated Al-Ansar Charity Association.

This decision is an extension of the preliminary round of sanctions introduced against Hamas members and financial institutions on Oct. 18.

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