Please Support JNS
Jewish news that makes sense
update desk

US State, Treasury departments designate Hezbollah-supporting ‘sanctions evasion network’

The latter department is re-advertising a $10 million reward for information about Hezbollah “financial mechanisms.”

Hezbollah flags fly over southern Lebanon. Credit: John Grummitt/Shutterstock.
Hezbollah flags fly over southern Lebanon. Credit: John Grummitt/Shutterstock.

In an April 18 announcement, the U.S. Treasury Department designated a “global sanctions evasion network” supporting Hezbollah with the U.S. State Department re-advertising a $10 million reward for information about Hezbollah’s “financial mechanisms.”

The latter specified information about Nazem Said Ahmad, a “specially designated global terrorist.” Since 1997, the State Department has designated Hezbollah a Foreign Terrorist Organization.

The two departments—working with the Departments of Justice, Homeland Security and Commerce, and with the United Kingdom—noted that the evasion network “facilitates the payment, shipment and delivery of cash, art and luxury goods” for Hezbollah’s benefit.

In December 2019, the United States sanctioned individuals and entities that launder money for Hezbollah, and then-Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin singled out Ahmad, for having “used money-laundering and tax-evasion schemes to fund terrorist plots” and finance his lavish lifestyle.

Ahmad, who owns a large art collection and has “blood diamond” trade ties, is reported to be a top Hezbollah donor.

Be a part of our community

JNS serves as the central hub for a thriving community of readers who appreciate the invaluable context our coverage offers on Israel and their Jewish world.

Please join our community and help support our unique brand of Jewish journalism that makes sense.

Support JNS
Topics
Never miss a thing
Get the best stories faster with JNS breaking news updates