UK sanctions two people suspected of funding pro-Hamas news network

Two individuals suspected of providing financial support to a news agency that promotes the Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorist groups will be sanctioned by the UK Government.

Aozma Sultana and Mustafa Ayash have been sanctioned using domestic counter-terrorism powers.

The pair are suspected of providing financial support for Gaza Now, a media network accused of promoting terrorism.

Both individuals and the companies they control are now subject to a full asset freeze.

As a result, no UK person will be able to send them money or provide financial services to them or any companies they own or control.

The United States has placed Sultana and Ayash under similar sanctions, as well as companies in their control, including Gaza Now, Aakhirah Limited and Al-Qureshi Executives.

Established in 2006, Gaza Now is a news agency based in the Palestinian territory which has seen a growth in popularity since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October.

It has been accused of taking a pro-Hamas stance on the conflict. This is the second time the UK has used a Treasury-led domestic counter-terrorism sanctions regime.

The first target was an art dealer suspected last year of abusing the UK’s fine art market to run an international terrorist financing operation for Hezbollah, a militant group based in Lebanon.

Treasury minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton said: “The UK and its partners are committed to cutting off funding sources to Hamas, PIJ (Palestinian Islamic Jihad) and any others supporting terrorist activity that prevents sustainable peace in the Middle East.

“We will also never hesitate to take action against those who exploit the integrity of Britain’s financial system, its broader economy and threaten our national security”.