Adham Hussein Tabaja is a U.S.-designated Lebanese businessman who directs and manages key financial networks for Hezbollah, a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. On June 15, 2015, Tabaja was designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) by the U.S. Department of Justice for providing financial support to Hezbollah. Given Tabaja’s continued business ventures on behalf of Hezbollah, on April 22, 2019, the U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program announced a reward of up to $10 million for information that would lead to his capture.“Treasury Targets Sanctions Evasion Conduits for Major Hizballah Financiers,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, April 24, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm668.

Tabaja is the majority owner of the Lebanon-based real estate development and construction firm Al-Inmaa Group for Tourism Works. The company’s subsidiaries include Al-Inmaa Engineering and Contracting, which operates in Lebanon and Iraq, as well as Lebanon-based Al-Inmaa for Entertainment and Leisure Projects. Given his penchant for real estate, Tabaja holds properties in Lebanon on behalf of Hezbollah. Since the late 1990s, Tabaja’s company Al-Inmaa Engineering and Contracting has been one of the largest and most successful real estate businesses in Lebanon. Tabaja then leveraged his ties to Hezbollah to create a construction monopoly for Al-Inmaa Engineering and Contracting in the Hezbollah-controlled Dahieh section of Beirut and southern Lebanon.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Front Companies and Facilitators in Lebanon And Iraq,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 10, 2015, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jl0069. When Tabaja expanded Al-Inmaa Engineering and Contracting to Iraq, he used the Iraqi branches of the company to obtain oil and construction development projects. The profits from the projects, and the buildings used for the projects, directly financially supported, and provided an operational location for Hezbollah.“Adham Husayn Tabaja,” Rewards for Justice, https://rewardsforjustice.net/rewards/adham-husayn-tabaja.

According to the U.S. Treasury Department, Tabaja also maintains direct ties with senior Hezbollah officials as well as their various branches, including the terrorist group’s operational component, Islamic Jihad.“Treasury Targets Sanctions Evasion Conduits for Major Hizballah Financiers,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, April 24, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm668. Accordingly, Tabaja and his companies worked alongside Hezbollah political official Muhammad Kawtharani to secure lucrative business contracts in the Green Zone areas of Baghdad, Iraq.“Adham Husayn Tabaja,” Rewards for Justice, https://rewardsforjustice.net/rewards/adham-husayn-tabaja.

On June 10, 2015, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Tabaja as an SDGT for providing material support or resources to Hezbollah. Additionally Saudi Arabia has designated Tabaja and his companies as terrorist entities.“Adham Husayn Tabaja,” Rewards for Justice, https://rewardsforjustice.net/rewards/adham-husayn-tabaja. Given that Tabaja continues to serve at the forefront of Hezbollah’s financial network, on April 22, 2019, the Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program announced a reward for $10 million on information leading to the capture of Tabaja.“Treasury Targets Sanctions Evasion Conduits for Major Hizballah Financiers,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, April 24, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm668.

Alexander Zhuchkovsky is a U.S.-designated member of the proscribed terrorist group, the Russian Imperial Movement (RIM). RIM is an ultranationalist, quasi-paramilitary group based in St. Petersburg, Russia. RIM seeks to create a “mono-ethnic state” led by a “Russian autocratic monarchy.”“White Supremacy Extremism: The Transnational Rise of the Violent White Supremacist Movement,” Soufan Center, September 2019, https://thesoufancenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Report-by-The-Soufan-Center-White-Supremacy-Extremism-The-Transnational-Rise-of-The-Violent-White-Supremacist-Movement.pdf; Lester Feder, Edgar Mannheimer, and Jane Lytvynenko, “These Swedish Nazis Trained in Russia before Bombing a Center for Asylum Seekers,” BuzzFeed News, July 22, 2017, https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/lesterfeder/these-swedish-nazis-trained-in-russia#.jmj8rBGYv. Zhuchkovsky reportedly uses social media to fundraise and recruit for RIM. Given Zhuchkovsky’s role in RIM, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Zhuchkovsky as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) and Specially Designated National (SDN) on June 15, 2022.“Designation of Anton Thulin as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist,” U.S. Department of State, June 15, 2022, https://www.state.gov/designation-of-anton-thulin-as-a-specially-designated-global-terrorist/; “Specially Designated National List Update,” U.S. Department of State, June 15, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/recent-actions/20220615.

Zhuchkovsky has reportedly utilized his own account on the Russia-based social media platform VK—previously known as VKontakte—to fundraise and recruit for the group. Since 2014, Zhuchkovsky has managed to raise 200 million rubles to purchase weapons and military equipment for RIM members and other pro-Russian fighters. The funds raised by Zhuchkovsky have also been allocated towards facilitating the travel of RIM fighters to Ukraine.“U.S. Sanctions Members of Russian Violent Extremist Group,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 15, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0817. According to the U.S. Department of State, Zhuchkovsky has also taught at RIM’s Partizan training center in St. Petersburg, Russia. The paramilitary training center provides participants with lessons on how to carry out acts of terrorism and violence.“U.S. Sanctions Members of Russian Violent Extremist Group,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 15, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0817. According to media sources, Zhuchkovsky fought in eastern Ukraine in 2014 and led an operation that included sending supplies such as radios, uniforms, cellphones, and everyday items to support the Russian fighters. Zhuchkovsky reportedly also raised $485,000 for the operation.Robyn Dixon, “Inside white-supremacist Russian Imperial Movement, designated foreign terrorist organization by U.S. State Department,” Washington Post, April 13, 2020, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/russia-white-supremacist-terrorism-us/2020/04/11/255a9762-7a75-11ea-a311-adb1344719a9_story.html.

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Zhuchkovsky continued to use his social media accounts and online payment methods to support RIM. The funds have reportedly purchased military equipment and supplies for Russian fighters in the Donbas region of Ukraine.“U.S. Sanctions Members of Russian Violent Extremist Group,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 15, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0817.

Given Zhuchkovsky’s significant role in supporting RIM’s efforts across Russia and Ukraine, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Zhuchkovsky as an SDGT and SDN on June 15, 2022.“Designation of Anton Thulin as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist,” U.S. Department of State, June 15, 2022, https://www.state.gov/designation-of-anton-thulin-as-a-specially-designated-global-terrorist/; “Specially Designated National List Update,” U.S. Department of State, June 15, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/recent-actions/20220615.

Abdallah Yusuf Faisal Sabri is a Kuwait-based Jordanian accountant who plays a prominent role within Hamas’s finance ministry.“U.S. puts sanctions on Hamas official, finance network,” Reuters, May 24, 2022, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-adds-hamas-linked-individuals-entities-sanctions-list-treasury-website-2022-05-24. On May 24, 2022, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Sabri as a Specially Designated National (SDN) for his role in expanding Hamas’s reach in the region.Treasury Targets Covert Hamas Investment Network and Finance Official,” U.S. Department of Treasury, May 24, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0798.

According to the Treasury Department, Sabri has been associated with Hamas since 2006. In 2018, Sabri began to manage Hamas’s operational expenses and oversee the transfer of large sums of money for the organization. The international transfers came from countries including Iran and Saudi Arabia which were ultimately allocated to Hamas members, units, and industries. In the same year, Sabri was appointed as chairman of a committee that worked alongside Hamas’s investment apparatus. The committee and investment unit reportedly collaborated on budget summary reports for Hamas’s leadership.Treasury Targets Covert Hamas Investment Network and Finance Official,” U.S. Department of Treasury, May 24, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0798.

Given Sabri’s role within Hamas, the Treasury Department designated Sabri as a SDN on May 24, 2022. As a finance official within Hamas, the U.S. Treasury believes Sabri was likely aware of Hamas’s investment projects, sources of income, and financial expenditures.Treasury Targets Covert Hamas Investment Network and Finance Official,” U.S. Department of Treasury, May 24, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0798.

Ahmad Zia Agha is a U.S.- and U.N.-sanctioned Taliban senior leader.Ian Talley, Mengqi Sun, and Margherita Stancati, “Sanctioned Taliban Financier Holds Leadership Post at Afghan Central Bank,” Wall Street Journal, March 11, 2022, https://www.wsj.com/articles/sanctioned-taliban-financier-tapped-to-help-lead-afghan-central-bank-11647003720. Following the Taliban’s takeover of the Afghan government on August 15, 2021, Agha was named the first deputy governor of the Afghan Central Bank in October 2021.“Taliban declares ‘war is over’ as president and diplomats flee Kabul,” Reuters, August 15, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/talibans-rapid-advance-across-afghanistan-2021-08-10/; Ian Talley, Mengqi Sun, and Margherita Stancati, “Sanctioned Taliban Financier Holds Leadership Post at Afghan Central Bank,” Wall Street Journal, March 11, 2022, https://www.wsj.com/articles/sanctioned-taliban-financier-tapped-to-help-lead-afghan-central-bank-11647003720.

Agha has undertaken various financial roles within the Taliban. In 2008, Agha distributed funds to Taliban commanders in Afghanistan as well as transferred money to individuals outside of the country who were associated with the Taliban.“AHMAD ZIA AGHA,” United Nations Security Council, January 6, 2012, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/ahmad-zia-agha. In 2009, Agha took on the official role of Taliban finance officer and continued to distribute money to Taliban commanders. According to the United Nations, Agha transferred tens of thousands of dollars to Taliban shadow provincial governors. As Taliban finance officer, Agha was in close contact with the Taliban’s shura treasurer who entrusted Agha with hundreds of thousands of dollars to fund improvised explosive device (IED) operations.“AHMAD ZIA AGHA,” United Nations Security Council, January 6, 2012, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/ahmad-zia-agha.

Agha quickly rose within the Taliban ranks, and in 2010, he was named the leader of the Taliban’s military shura, which directed Taliban military operations in western Afghanistan.“AHMAD ZIA AGHA,” United Nations Security Council, January 6, 2012, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/ahmad-zia-agha. Given Agha’s prominent role within the financial and military operations of the Taliban, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Agha as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) on June 21, 2011.“Designation of Four Individuals Pursuant to Executive Order 13224,” Federal Register, June 28, 2011, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2011/06/28/2011-16185/designation-of-four-individuals-pursuant-to-executive-order-13224. The U.N. Security Council followed suit and designated Agha on January 6, 2012, with the European Union designating Agha a few years later on March 7, 2017.“AHMAD ZIA AGHA,” United Nations Security Council, January 6, 2012, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/ahmad-zia-agha; “COUNCIL IMPLEMENTING DECISION (CFSP) 2017/416,” Official Journal of the European Union, September 3, 2017, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32017D0416&rid=2.

On August 6, 2021, the Taliban began an offensive against major Afghan cities.Susannah George and Ezzatullah Mehrdad, “Taliban fighters overrun an Afghan provincial capital for the first time since withdrawal of foreign forces,” Washington Post, August 6, 2021, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2021/08/06/afghanistan-taliban-nimruz/. By August 16, the Taliban laid siege to the presidential palace and took complete control of Kabul, after which the Taliban declared the war in Afghanistan had ended.“Taliban declares ‘war is over’ as president and diplomats flee Kabul,” Reuters, August 15, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/talibans-rapid-advance-across-afghanistan-2021-08-10/. On September 7, 2021, the Taliban announced the official appointments within their caretaker government. Mullah Muhammad Hassan was named prime minister, and Abdul Ghani Baradar was named co-deputy prime minister along with Abdul Salam Hanafi. The government is exclusively male, with many positions filled with veterans from their hardline movement in the early nineties.Matthieu Aikins and Jim Huylebroek, “Taliban Appoint Stalwarts to Top Government Posts,” New York Times, September 7, 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/07/world/asia/taliban-women-protest-kabul-afghanistan.html; Kathy Gannon, “Taliban form all-male Afghan government of old guard members,” Associated Press, September 8, 2021, https://apnews.com/article/middle-east-pakistan-afghanistan-arrests-islamabad-d50b1b490d27d32eb20cc11b77c12c87. Sometime in October 2021, Agha was named the first deputy governor of the Afghan Central Bank, serving under Hajji Muhammad Idris.Ian Talley, Mengqi Sun, and Margherita Stancati, “Sanctioned Taliban Financier Holds Leadership Post at Afghan Central Bank,” Wall Street Journal, March 11, 2022, https://www.wsj.com/articles/sanctioned-taliban-financier-tapped-to-help-lead-afghan-central-bank-11647003720.

In his new role, Agha is the second highest ranking official within the central bank. Additionally, Agha is in control of the authority that oversees Afghanistan’s financial sector which includes regulations to combat the financing of terrorism and anti-money-laundering. Given Agha’s international designations, the Wall Street Journal has reported that western policy makers are weary about providing the Taliban-run government with access to foreign financing. Access to foreign financing would include billions of dollars of funds at the World Bank and $7 billion in foreign currency reserves held in the United States.Ian Talley, Mengqi Sun, and Margherita Stancati, “Sanctioned Taliban Financier Holds Leadership Post at Afghan Central Bank,” Wall Street Journal, March 11, 2022, https://www.wsj.com/articles/sanctioned-taliban-financier-tapped-to-help-lead-afghan-central-bank-11647003720.

The U.S. government has sought several conditions from the Afghan Central Bank—including operating independently from the Taliban government, led by technocrats, and third-party oversight—before releasing some of the reserve funds through the central bank. Afghanistan Central Bank officials have stated that they are committed to complying with those conditions as well as international regulations regarding anti-money-laundering and counter-financing terrorism. Although Agha was designated by OFAC, a general license issued by the U.S. Treasury Department in February 2022 allows transactions with Afghanistan’s governing institutions, even if they are led by sanctioned individuals.Ian Talley, Mengqi Sun, and Margherita Stancati, “Sanctioned Taliban Financier Holds Leadership Post at Afghan Central Bank,” Wall Street Journal, March 11, 2022, https://www.wsj.com/articles/sanctioned-taliban-financier-tapped-to-help-lead-afghan-central-bank-11647003720.

Adel Diab is a U.S.-designated Lebanese businessman and Hezbollah financier. The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) accuses Diab of being a Hezbollah member and Lebanese businessman who has used his business to raise funds for Hezbollah and facilitate Hezbollah’s activities.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558.

According to OFAC, Diab jointly owned assets with Ali Al Sha’ir, a U.S.-designated assistant to Hezbollah fundraiser Hasib Muhammad Hadwan. Hadwan is a U.S.-designated member of Hezbollah’s General Secretariat, who works with Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558.

Along with Ali Mohamad Daoun and Jihad Salem Alame, Diab cofounded the Lebanon-based travel agency Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism. The Treasury Department designated all three individuals on January 18, 2022. Treasury designated Diab under Executive Order 13224 for “having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of,” Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558. Treasury also designated Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism under Executive Order 13224 for being owned, controlled, or directed by, directly or indirectly, Daoun.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558. Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism organizes religious tours to Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Iran.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540. Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism is also subject to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations, which implement the Hizballah International Financing Prevention Act (HIFPA) of 2015. Under HIFPA, OFAC can prohibit or impose strict conditions on the opening or maintaining in the United States of a correspondent account or a payable-through account by a foreign financial institution that, among other things, knowingly facilitates a significant transaction for Hezbollah or certain persons designated for their connection to Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558.

After Treasury designated Diab in January 2022, Hezbollah’s Al Manar TV accused the United States of enforcing a “blockade” on Lebanon, which is already suffering an economic crisis.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540. Sheikh Ali Damush, deputy head of Hezbollah’s Executive Council, has claimed the increasing economic pressure on Lebanon will not change the behavior of Hezbollah or its loyalists.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540.

Jihad Salim Alame is a Lebanese national and member of Hezbollah. The U.S. government designated Alame on January 18, 2022, for “having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of,” Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558.

Along with Ali Mohamad Daoun andAdel Diab, Alame cofounded the Lebanon-based travel agency Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism. The Treasury Department designated all three individuals on January 18, 2022. Treasury designated Alame under Executive Order 13224 for “for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of,” Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558. Treasury also designated Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism under Executive Order 13224 for being owned, controlled, or directed by, directly or indirectly, Daoun.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558. Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism organizes religious tours to Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Iran.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540. Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism is also subject to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations, which implement the Hizballah International Financing Prevention Act (HIFPA) of 2015. Under HIFPA, OFAC can prohibit or impose strict conditions on the opening or maintaining in the United States of a correspondent account or a payable-through account by a foreign financial institution that, among other things, knowingly facilitates a significant transaction for Hezbollah or certain persons designated for their connection to Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558.

After Treasury designated Alame in January 2022, Hezbollah’s Al Manar TV accused the United States of enforcing a “blockade” on Lebanon, which is already suffering an economic crisis.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540. Sheikh Ali Damush, deputy head of Hezbollah’s Executive Council, has claimed the increasing economic pressure on Lebanon will not change the behavior of Hezbollah or its loyalists.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540.

Ali Mohamad Daoun is a U.S.-designated Lebanese national and Hezbollah official. According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Daoun oversees Hezbollah activities in parts of Lebanon.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558.

Along with Adel Diab and Jihad Salem Alame, Daoun cofounded the Lebanon-based travel agency Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism. The Treasury Department designated all three individuals on January 18, 2022. Treasury designated Daoun under Executive Order 13224 for “having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of,” Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558. Treasury also designated Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism under Executive Order 13224 for being owned, controlled, or directed by, directly or indirectly, Daoun.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558. Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism organizes religious tours to Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Iran.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540. Daoun and Dar Al Salam for Travel & Tourism are also subject to the Hizballah Financial Sanctions Regulations, which implement the Hizballah International Financing Prevention Act (HIFPA) of 2015. Under HIFPA, OFAC can prohibit or impose strict conditions on the opening or maintaining in the United States of a correspondent account or a payable-through account by a foreign financial institution that, among other things, knowingly facilitates a significant transaction for Hezbollah or certain persons designated for their connection to Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Financiers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, January 18, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0558.

After Treasury designated Daoun in January 2022, Hezbollah’s Al Manar TV accused the United States of enforcing a “blockade” on Lebanon, which is already suffering an economic crisis.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540. Sheikh Ali Damush, deputy head of Hezbollah’s Executive Council, has claimed the increasing economic pressure on Lebanon will not change the behavior of Hezbollah or its loyalists.“Latest of US Blockade on Lebanon: Sanctions on Travel Agency,” Al Manar TV, January 19, 2022, https://english.almanar.com.lb/1517540.

Haytham Ahmad Shukri Ahmad Al-Maghrabi is a U.S.-designated Egyptian member of al-Qaeda in Brazil. Al-Maghrabi was designated by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) on December 22, 2021, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support to al-Qaeda.“Designation of al-Qa’ida Network in Brazil,” U.S. Department of State, December 22, 2021, https://www.state.gov/designation-of-al-qaida-network-in-brazil/.

In 2015, Al-Maghrabi arrived in Brazil, where he was one of the initial members of al-Qaeda’s base in the country.“Treasury Designates al-Qa’ida Support Network in Brazil,” U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Brazil, December 22, 2021, https://br.usembassy.gov/treasury-designates-al-qaida-support-network-in-brazil/. According to the Treasury Department, Al-Maghrabi was involved with the financial aspects of al-Qaeda’s affiliate in Brazil. Al-Maghrabi allegedly carried out frequent contact and business dealings to include the purchase of foreign currency.“Designation of al-Qa’ida Network in Brazil,” U.S. Department of State, December 22, 2021, https://www.state.gov/designation-of-al-qaida-network-in-brazil/.

According to media reports, Al-Maghrabi reported to and was the Brazil-based contact for the U.S.-designated Ahmed Mohammed Hamed Ali—one of the 22 suspects who plotted the twin U.S. embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998.Robert Windrem, “Slow-motion manhunt: US relentlessly pursues '98 embassy bombing suspects,” NBC News, October 8, 2013, https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/slow-motion-manhunt-us-relentlessly-pursues-98-embassy-bombing-suspects-flna8c11354614; “Treasury Designates al-Qa’ida Support Network in Brazil,” U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Brazil, December 22, 2021, https://br.usembassy.gov/treasury-designates-al-qaida-support-network-in-brazil/.

Given Al-Maghrabi’s history of material and financial support to al-Qaeda’s affiliate network in Brazil, on December 22, 2021, the Treasury Department designated Al-Maghrabi as an SDGT.“Designation of al-Qa’ida Network in Brazil,” U.S. Department of State, December 22, 2021, https://www.state.gov/designation-of-al-qaida-network-in-brazil/.

Ismatullah Khalozai is a U.S.-designated financial facilitator of Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), ISIS’s affiliate in Afghanistan. Since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, ISIS-K has become a prominent threat in the region, launching a series of high-casualty attacks targeting American nationals, the Taliban, and minority Afghan groups.“Letter dated 21 January 2021 from the Chair of the Security Council Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011) and 2253 (2015) concerning Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da’esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals, groups, undertakings and entities addressed to the President of the Security Council,” United Nations Security Council, February 3, 2021, https://undocs.org/en/S/2021/68. On November 22, 2021, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Khalozai as a Specially Designated National (SDN) for his role in financing ISIS-K operations.“Taking Action Against ISIS-K,” U.S. Department of State, November 22, 2021, https://www.state.gov/taking-action-against-isis-k/.

According to the U.S. Department of State, Khalozai is an international financial facilitator for ISIS-K. Khalozai reportedly operated a Turkey-based hawala business—an ancient payment system with South Asian roots—to transfer funds that would finance ISIS-K activities. Additionally, to further raise revenue for ISIS-K, Khalozai operated a United Arab Emirates-based financing scheme that involved sending luxury items to international destinations for resale.“Taking Action Against ISIS-K,” U.S. Department of State, November 22, 2021, https://www.state.gov/taking-action-against-isis-k/.

Outside of his financing activities, Khalozai has assisted in human smuggling operations for ISIS-K. In one instance, Khalozai personally smuggled an ISIS-K courier from Afghanistan to Turkey.“Taking Action Against ISIS-K,” U.S. Department of State, November 22, 2021, https://www.state.gov/taking-action-against-isis-k/. Given Khalozai’s role in ISIS-K, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Khalozai as an SDN on November 22, 2021.“Taking Action Against ISIS-K,” U.S. Department of State, November 22, 2021, https://www.state.gov/taking-action-against-isis-k/.

Sami Jasim is a U.S.-designated ISIS senior leader. Jasim, who was a deputy to former ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, served as the group’s finance chief. On October 11, 2021, Jasim was arrested in a “complex external operation” by the Iraqi National Intelligence Service in either Turkey or northwestern Syria.Frank Gardner, “Iraq claims capture of IS financial chief in operation abroad,” BBC News, October 11, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-58868803; Ahmed Rasheed, “EXCLUSIVE Turkish intelligence helped Iraq capture Islamic State leader, sources say,” Reuters, October 12, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/exclusive-turkish-intelligence-helped-iraq-capture-islamic-state-leader-sources-2021-10-12/.

According to media sources, Jasim allegedly pledged allegiance to Iraqi al-Qaeda leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and served as a foot soldier for the terror group in 2003 when a U.S.-led force invaded Iraq.Louisa Loveluck and Mustafa Salim, “Iraq announces arrest of top ISIS financial figure in operation abroad,” Washington Post, October 11, 2021, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/iraq-announces-isis-leader-capture/2021/10/11/ffbd0ab0-2a6a-11ec-b17d-985c186de338_story.html. Jasim later met Baghdadi in 2012, and went on to serve multiple positions throughout ISIS’s various judicial, financial, and industry ministries.Louisa Loveluck and Mustafa Salim, “Iraq announces arrest of top ISIS financial figure in operation abroad,” Washington Post, October 11, 2021, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/iraq-announces-isis-leader-capture/2021/10/11/ffbd0ab0-2a6a-11ec-b17d-985c186de338_story.html.

In 2014, Jasim served as an ISIS deputy in southern Mosul where he began working as the group’s finance minister. In that role, Jasim supervised ISIS’s revenue-generating operations including the illicit sales of oil, gas, antiquities, and minerals.Sirwan Kajjo, “Could Move by US Against IS Trio Weaken Terror Group?,” Voice of America, August 29, 2019, https://www.voanews.com/a/extremism-watch_could-move-us-against-trio-weaken-terror-group/6174831.html. According to officials at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Jasim had allegedly overseen revenues of more than $1 billion a year.Anshal Vohra, “Iraqi forces capture Sami Jasim Muhammad al-Jaburi, Islamic State’s finance chief,” Times, October 11, 2021, https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/iraqi-forces-capture-sami-jasim-muhammad-al-jaburi-islamic-states-finance-chief-wzkt00c6g.

On October 2, 2015, the U.S. Treasury Department designated Jasim as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT).“Sanctions Actions Pursuant to Executive Orders 13224,” Federal Register, October 2, 2015, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2015-10-02/pdf/2015-25070.pdf. Although Iraqi Kurdish intelligence officials claimed Jasim was killed in a joint U.S.-Kurdish operation near Ambar, western Iraq in August 2016, it was later reported Jasim was not among the targeted members in that raid.Sirwan Kajjo, “Could Move by US Against IS Trio Weaken Terror Group?,” Voice of America, August 29, 2019, https://www.voanews.com/a/extremism-watch_could-move-us-against-trio-weaken-terror-group/6174831.html. On August 29, 2019, the U.S. State Department’s Rewards for Justice program announced a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the capture of Jasim.Sirwan Kajjo, “Could Move by US Against IS Trio Weaken Terror Group?,” Voice of America, August 29, 2019, https://www.voanews.com/a/extremism-watch_could-move-us-against-trio-weaken-terror-group/6174831.html.

Although ISIS was militarily defeated in Iraq by 2014, the group continued to carry out small-scale attacks in the country’s hinterlands, with many members reportedly hiding out in cities throughout the country.Sirwan Kajjo, “Could Move by US Against IS Trio Weaken Terror Group?,” Voice of America, August 29, 2019, https://www.voanews.com/a/extremism-watch_could-move-us-against-trio-weaken-terror-group/6174831.html. The jihadist group has primarily converted to an insurgency and continues to conduct hit-and-run attacks.Frank Gardner, “Iraq claims capture of IS financial chief in operation abroad,” BBC News, October 11, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-58868803.

Following the death of Baghdadi in 2019, Jasim became a close aide to Baghdadi’s successor, Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurashi.“Iraqi forces capture senior Islamic State leader, PM says,” Reuters, October 11, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iraqi-forces-capture-deputy-is-slain-leader-baghdadi-pm-2021-10-11/. Jasim’s role in ISIS expanded from not only overseeing the group’s finances, but also coordinating attacks between Iraq and Syria.“Iraqi forces capture senior Islamic State leader, PM says,” Reuters, October 11, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iraqi-forces-capture-deputy-is-slain-leader-baghdadi-pm-2021-10-11/. At some point, Jasim reportedly became one of a dozen members of ISIS’s top leadership council, the delegated committee.Frank Gardner, “Iraq claims capture of IS financial chief in operation abroad,” BBC News, October 11, 2021, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-58868803; “Iraqi forces capture senior Islamic State leader, PM says,” Reuters, October 11, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iraqi-forces-capture-deputy-is-slain-leader-baghdadi-pm-2021-10-11/.

On October 11, 2021, Iraqi security forces—with the help of key Turkish intelligence—captured Jasim in a “complex external operation” in either Turkey or northwestern Syria.“Iraq arrests IS finance chief wanted by US 'in Turkey',” France 24, October 11, 2021, https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20211011-iraq-arrests-is-finance-chief-wanted-by-us-in-turkey; Ahmed Rasheed, “EXCLUSIVE Turkish intelligence helped Iraq capture Islamic State leader, sources say,” Reuters, October 12, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/exclusive-turkish-intelligence-helped-iraq-capture-islamic-state-leader-sources-2021-10-12/. Although Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi did not confirm where the operation took place, an Iraqi military source told media that Jasim was captured in Turkey. However, other military sources allege Jasim was captured in northwestern Syria.Ahmed Rasheed, “EXCLUSIVE Turkish intelligence helped Iraq capture Islamic State leader, sources say,” Reuters, October 12, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/exclusive-turkish-intelligence-helped-iraq-capture-islamic-state-leader-sources-2021-10-12/. Jasim, who is currently in Iraqi custody, is only the second senior ISIS member to be captured alive.“Iraqi forces capture senior Islamic State leader, PM says,” Reuters, October 11, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iraqi-forces-capture-deputy-is-slain-leader-baghdadi-pm-2021-10-11/; Louisa Loveluck and Mustafa Salim, “Iraq announces arrest of top ISIS financial figure in operation abroad,” Washington Post, October 11, 2021, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/iraq-announces-isis-leader-capture/2021/10/11/ffbd0ab0-2a6a-11ec-b17d-985c186de338_story.html.