The US Treasury Department announced new sanctions targeting the financing network of the ISIS organization, also known as ISIL. The sanctions cover three individuals and six companies operating in Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa.
Targeted individuals and companies
According to the Treasury Department's statement, the individuals placed on the sanctions list are:
- Miloud Abdelrahman, residing in France
- Abdelhakim Bekkiche, residing in Syria
- Mukhtar Adamu Muhammed, residing in Nigeria
The department alleged that these individuals are 'key intermediaries' facilitating money transfers between ISIS's regional branches.
Sanctioned companies
The sanctions also target six companies. Among them is 'Bitcoin Exchange,' a company reportedly of Dutch origin managed by Abdelhakim Bekkiche. The Treasury Department claimed that this company conducted money transfers from Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, South Africa, and the US on behalf of ISIS-linked associates.
Two Turkey-based financial service companies, 'Spider' and 'Al-Karam,' were also added to the sanctions list. Additionally, three more companies managed by Mukhtar Adamu Muhammed were placed under sanctions.
US allegations
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement on the sanctions, 'ISIS continues to seek new methods and tools to finance its terrorist attacks.' Bessent added, 'The US will use every tool at its disposal to crush the group's remaining capabilities and protect American lives.'
The Treasury Department alleged that Miloud Abdelrahman conducted transactions with various ISIS branches and provided training to the group's supporters on explosives production.
The US has for years imposed sanctions on individuals and entities it says are linked to ISIS, particularly in Syria and Iraq.
