Gul Agha Ishakzai, better known as Gul Agha, is a U.N.-sanctioned Taliban senior leader who is a close friend and advisor to Taliban leader Mullah Mohammed Omar.“Security Council 1988 Committee Amends 105 Entries on Its Sanctions List,” United Nations, November 29, 2011, https://www.un.org/press/en/2011/sc10465.doc.htm. Following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, Gul Agha was named minister of finance of the Taliban government.“Taliban forms 33-member cabinet in Afghanistan: Full list,” Hindustan Times, September 8, 2021, https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/taliban-forms-33-member-cabinet-in-afghanistan-full-list-101631066722518.html.

A member of the Ishaqzai tribe, Gul Agha is a childhood friend of Taliban leader Mullah Mohammed Omar. As one of Omar’s closest advisors, Gul Agha reportedly served as his principal finance officer. According to the United Nations, at one point no one was allowed to meet with Omar unless previously approved by Gul Agha. During the first Taliban regime, Gul Agha allegedly lived in the presidential palace with Omar.“GUL AGHA ISHAKZAI,” United Nations Security Council, July 20, 2010, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/gul-agha-ishakzai.

Gul Agha reportedly facilitated the movement of people and goods to Taliban training camps in December 2005, and later traveled to obtain weapon parts in late 2006.“GUL AGHA ISHAKZAI,” United Nations Security Council, July 20, 2010, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/gul-agha-ishakzai. Among Gul Agha’s more nefarious responsibilities included collecting money for suicide attacks in Kandahar, Afghanistan and distributing funds to Taliban fighters and their families.“GUL AGHA ISHAKZAI,” United Nations Security Council, July 20, 2010, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/gul-agha-ishakzai.

According to media sources, one of Gul Agha’s most recent roles was as a member of a Taliban Council that coordinated the collection of zakat (Islamic tax) throughout Baluchistan Province, Pakistan. Additionally, according to the United Nations, from at least July 2010, Gul Agha served as head of the Taliban Financial Commission—a role which he held until September 2021.“GUL AGHA ISHAKZAI,” United Nations Security Council, July 20, 2010, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/gul-agha-ishakzai; “Taliban appoint senior veterans to key ministerial posts,” Reuters, August 25, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/taliban-appoint-senior-veterans-key-ministerial-posts-2021-08-25/. Given his prominent role within the Taliban, the United Nations Security Council sanctioned Gul Agha on July 10, 2010, and the U.K. Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation sanctioned Gul Agha on July 30, 2010.“Security Council 1988 Committee Amends 105 Entries on Its Sanctions List,” United Nations, November 29, 2011, https://www.un.org/press/en/2011/sc10465.doc.htm; “CONSOLIDATED LIST OF FINANCIAL SANCTIONS TARGETS IN THE UK,” Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation HM  Treasury, February 1, 2021, https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/957420/afghanistan.pdf.

On August 6, 2021, the Taliban began an offensive against major Afghan cities with the seizure of Zaranj, capital of Nimruz province.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 13, the Taliban controlled 17 of Afghanistan’s 34 provincial capitals and more than two-thirds of the country.Rahim Faiez, and Joseph Krauss, “Taliban sweep across Afghanistan’s south; take 4 more cities,” Associated Press, August 13, 2021, https://apnews.com/article/middle-east-taliban-c6c8d4a41c554f36031a8131538d1402. On August 15, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani fled Afghanistan and thousands of Afghans poured into Kabul’s airport as Taliban fighters entered the city. 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/. The Taliban has claimed that it would take on a more “moderate” approach in their ruling of the country, and that women are allowed to have roles in public life in observance of “Islamic law.”“Factbox: Taliban seek to present a moderate face as they take control in Afghanistan,” Reuters, August 15, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/taliban-seek-present-moderate-face-they-take-control-afghanistan-2021-08-15/.

On September 7, 2021, the Taliban announced the official appointments within their caretaker government. Gul Agha was appointed minister of finance of the Taliban government.“Taliban forms 33-member cabinet in Afghanistan: Full list,” Hindustan Times, September 8, 2021, https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/taliban-forms-33-member-cabinet-in-afghanistan-full-list-101631066722518.html. 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.

Khalil al-Rahman Haqqani was an internationally designated Taliban official and senior leader within the Haqqani network. Following the Taliban’s August 2021 takeover of Afghanistan, Haqqani appointed himself as chief of security of the Taliban government.Jack Newman, “One of America's most-wanted terrorists on the streets of Kabul: Taliban fundraiser Khalil Haqqani - who has a $5m bounty on his head for his links to Al Qaeda - greets adoring crowds in Kabul,” Daily Mail (London), August 20, 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9912609/Taliban-fundraiser-Khalil-Haqqani-wanted-links-Al-Qaeda-greets-crowds-Kabul.html. He was appointed acting minister for refugees of the Taliban government on September 7, 2021.Douglas Schorzman, “Who Are the Taliban’s New Government Leaders? Here’s What We Know,” New York Times, September 7, 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/article/taliban-leaders-afghanistan.html?action=click&module=RelatedLinks&pgtype=Article. On December 11, 2024, Haqqani died in an Islamic State Khorasan province (ISIS-K) suicide bombing in Kabul.Simon Fraser and Caroline Davies, “Suicide bomb kills Taliban minister in Kabul,” BBC News, December 11, 2024, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg952q81x8ol; Ayaz Gul, “Funeral held for slain Afghan Taliban minister; IS-K claims credit for killing,” Voice of America, December 12,2024, https://www.voanews.com/a/funeral-held-for-slain-afghan-taliban-minister-is-k-claims-credit-for-killing/7898958.html.

The Haqqani network is widely considered the Taliban’s most radical and violent branch but has operated independently from the broader Taliban.Sune Engel Rasmussen and Nancy A. Youssef, “In Taliban-Ruled Afghanistan, Al Qaeda-Linked Haqqani Network Rises to Power,” Wall Street Journal, August 26, 2021, https://www.wsj.com/articles/in-taliban-ruled-afghanistan-al-qaeda-linked-haqqani-network-rises-to-power-11629990056. Among its activities, the network has been accused of orchestrating numerous cross-border attacks from its home base in North Waziristan, Pakistan. Among those attacks include the September 2011 siege at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, the 2008 Serena Hotel attack in which seven were killed, and the 2017 truck bombing near the German embassy which killed 96.“US offers new bounties for Haqqani network members,” Associated Press, August 20, 2014, https://apnews.com/article/aa640fb0516d4d8b9b1eb79a4dce8b2e; Jack Newman, “One of America’s most-wanted terrorists on the streets of Kabul: Taliban fundraiser Khalil Haqqani - who has a $5m bounty on his head for his links to Al Qaeda - greets adoring crowds in Kabul,” Daily Mail (London), August 20, 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9912609/Taliban-fundraiser-Khalil-Haqqani-wanted-links-Al-Qaeda-greets-crowds-Kabul.html; Declan Walsh, “Seven killed as Taliban militants storm luxury hotel in Kabul,” Guardian (London), January 15, 2008, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2008/jan/15/afghanistan.pressandpublishing.

Haqqani was the brother of Jalaluddin Haqqani—who founded the Haqqani network in the 1970s—and was the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, the deputy leader of the Taliban.Jack Newman, “One of America's most-wanted terrorists on the streets of Kabul: Taliban fundraiser Khalil Haqqani - who has a $5m bounty on his head for his links to Al Qaeda - greets adoring crowds in Kabul,” Daily Mail, August 20, 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9912609/Taliban-fundraiser-Khalil-Haqqani-wanted-links-Al-Qaeda-greets-crowds-Kabul.html. Following the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the Haqqani family ran an operation that actively targeted U.S. war efforts. The Haqqani network is also suspected of aiding in Osama bin Laden’s escape from Tora Bora in 2001.“Khalil Haqqani, long on America’s terrorist list, is welcomed by cheering crowds in Kabul,” New York Times, August 20, 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/08/20/world/biden-afghanistan-taliban/khalil-haqqani-long-on-americas-terrorist-list-is-welcomed-by-cheering-crowds-in-kabul. The network became known for its use of suicide bombers and its ability to carry out sophisticated, high-casualty attacks on major targets including military installations and embassies.“Khalil Haqqani, long on America’s terrorist list, is welcomed by cheering crowds in Kabul,” New York Times, August 20, 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/08/20/world/biden-afghanistan-taliban/khalil-haqqani-long-on-americas-terrorist-list-is-welcomed-by-cheering-crowds-in-kabul; “The Haqqani network: Afghanistan's most feared militants,” France 24, August 21, 2021, https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20210821-the-haqqani-network-afghanistan-s-most-feared-militants.

Haqqani served as the chief of operations for the Haqqani network and engaged in fundraising activities on behalf of the Taliban, helping to develop a complex international fundraising network. Haqqani’s key responsibilities were to operate front companies, such as construction firms and transport companies, that would support and fund the group’s operations in Pakistan.Gretchen Peters, “Haqqani Network Financing: The Evolution of an Industry,” Combating Terrorism Center at West Point, July 2012, https://ctc.usma.edu/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/CTC_Haqqani_Network_Financing-Report__Final.pdf. As chief of operations, Haqqani approved suicide bombings against U.S. forces.Ken Dilanian, “New Taliban head of security for Kabul is wanted by U.S. as terrorist,” NBC News, August 26, 2021, https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/new-taliban-head-security-kabul-wanted-u-s-terrorist-n1277700. Additionally, Haqqani was the senior emissary to al-Qaeda’s leadership—where he was linked to the group’s military operations—and also served as a senior member who liaised with Pakistani intelligence.Ken Dilanian, “New Taliban head of security for Kabul is wanted by U.S. as terrorist,” NBC News, August 26, 2021, https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/new-taliban-head-security-kabul-wanted-u-s-terrorist-n1277700; Jack Newman, “One of America's most-wanted terrorists on the streets of Kabul: Taliban fundraiser Khalil Haqqani - who has a $5m bounty on his head for his links to Al Qaeda - greets adoring crowds in Kabul,” Daily Mail, August 20, 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9912609/Taliban-fundraiser-Khalil-Haqqani-wanted-links-Al-Qaeda-greets-crowds-Kabul.html. In 2002, Haqqani deployed men to reinforce al-Qaeda elements in Paktia Province, Afghanistan.“Treasury Targets the Financial And Support Networks of Al Qa’ida and the Taliban, Haqqani Network Leadership,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 9, 2011, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/tg1055.aspx.

In 2009, Haqqani served as a military commander in the Haqqani network where he oversaw more than 160 combatants and was one of several people responsible for the detention of enemy prisoners captured by the Taliban and the Haqqani network.“Treasury Targets the Financial And Support Networks of Al Qa’ida and the Taliban, Haqqani Network Leadership,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 9, 2011, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/tg1055.aspx. By 2009, Haqqani had traveled to raised funds from sources in the Gulf states as well as South and East Asia.“KHALIL AHMED HAQQANI,” United Nations Security Council, February 9, 2011, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/khalil-ahmed-haqqani. In 2010, Haqqani provided funds to Taliban cells in Logar Province, Afghanistan.Jack Newman, “One of America's most-wanted terrorists on the streets of Kabul: Taliban fundraiser Khalil Haqqani - who has a $5m bounty on his head for his links to Al Qaeda - greets adoring crowds in Kabul,” Daily Mail, August 20, 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9912609/Taliban-fundraiser-Khalil-Haqqani-wanted-links-Al-Qaeda-greets-crowds-Kabul.html.

Given Haqqani’s senior role within the Haqqani network, and his support to al-Qaeda and the Taliban, on February 9, 2011, the U.N. Security Council sanctioned Haqqani, with the U.S. Department of Treasury also designating Haqqani as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) the same day.“KHALIL AHMED HAQQANI,” United Nations Security Council, February 9, 2011, https://www.un.org/securitycouncil/sanctions/1988/materials/summaries/individual/khalil-ahmed-haqqani; “Treasury Targets the Financial And Support Networks of Al Qa’ida and the Taliban, Haqqani Network Leadership,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 9, 2011, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/tg1055.aspx. Haqqani remained a continued threat to U.S. operations and on August 20, 2014, the U.S. State Department’s Rewards for Justice program announced a bounty of up to $5 million for information leading to the location of Haqqani.“US offers new bounties for Haqqani network members,” Associated Press, August 20, 2014, https://apnews.com/article/aa640fb0516d4d8b9b1eb79a4dce8b2e.

Following the Taliban’s takeover of the Afghan government on August 15, 2021, on August 20, Haqqani landed in Kabul where he was placed in charge of security for the capital city.Jack Newman, “One of America's most-wanted terrorists on the streets of Kabul: Taliban fundraiser Khalil Haqqani - who has a $5m bounty on his head for his links to Al Qaeda - greets adoring crowds in Kabul,” Daily Mail, August 20, 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9912609/Taliban-fundraiser-Khalil-Haqqani-wanted-links-Al-Qaeda-greets-crowds-Kabul.html; Ali M Latifi, “‘All Afghans’ should feel safe under Taliban, says security chief,” Al Jazeera, August 22, 2021, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/8/22/all-afghans-should-feel-safe-under-taliban-says-security-chief. Haqqani is allegedly set to serve as the chief of security for the Taliban’s new government.Ken Dilanian, “New Taliban head of security for Kabul is wanted by U.S. as terrorist,” NBC News, August 26, 2021, https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/new-taliban-head-security-kabul-wanted-u-s-terrorist-n1277700; Jack Newman, “One of America's most-wanted terrorists on the streets of Kabul: Taliban fundraiser Khalil Haqqani - who has a $5m bounty on his head for his links to Al Qaeda - greets adoring crowds in Kabul,” Daily Mail, August 20, 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9912609/Taliban-fundraiser-Khalil-Haqqani-wanted-links-Al-Qaeda-greets-crowds-Kabul.html. Upon his arrival in Kabul, Haqqani delivered remarks at the Pul-i-Khishti Mosque, where he announced, “our first priority for Afghanistan is security…We will give security, then we will give economy, trade, education for men and women. There will be no discrimination.” Additionally, Haqqani told media sources that he had been consulting with Abdullah Abdullah, the chairman of Afghanistan’s National Reconciliation Council, and former president of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai.“Khalil Haqqani, long on America’s terrorist list, is welcomed by cheering crowds in Kabul,” New York Times, August 20, 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/08/20/world/biden-afghanistan-taliban/khalil-haqqani-long-on-americas-terrorist-list-is-welcomed-by-cheering-crowds-in-kabul.

On September 7, 2021, the Taliban announced the official appointments within their caretaker government. Haqqani was named minister for refugees. 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; Douglas Schorzman, “Who Are the Taliban’s New Government Leaders? Here’s What We Know,” New York Times, September 7, 2021, https://www.nytimes.com/article/taliban-leaders-afghanistan.html?action=click&module=RelatedLinks&pgtype=Article. Haqqani held the position of minister for refugees until his death on December 11, 2024, when an ISIS-K suicide bomber detonated an explosive outside of Haqqani’s office in Kabul. The explosion killed Haqqani and six others. Haqqani was the highest-profile Taliban leader targeted by ISIS-K since the de facto regime came to power in August 2021.Simon Fraser and Caroline Davies, “Suicide bomb kills Taliban minister in Kabul,” BBC News, December 11, 2024, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg952q81x8ol; Ayaz Gul, “Funeral held for slain Afghan Taliban minister; IS-K claims credit for killing,” Voice of America, December 12,2024, https://www.voanews.com/a/funeral-held-for-slain-afghan-taliban-minister-is-k-claims-credit-for-killing/7898958.html.

Hasan al-Shaban is a U.S.-designated, Turkey-based fundraiser who participated in a global financing scheme that supported al-Qaeda and militants in Syria. On July 28, 2021, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated al-Shaban as a Specially Designated National (SDN) for exploiting global financial systems to support violent extremism.“Treasury Designates Al-Qa’ida-Linked Financial Facilitators in Turkey and Syria,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0293; Thomas Joscelyn, “U.S. designates al Qaeda financial facilitator based in Turkey,” Long War Journal, July 28, 2021, https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2021/07/u-s-designates-al-qaeda-financial-facilitator-based-in-turkey.php.

According to the Department of the Treasury, al-Shaban’s banking information was given to prospective al-Qaeda donors via an al-Qaeda member who raised funds for the jihadist group. The funds were then used to support al-Qaeda military efforts as well as fund the mujahideen fighting in Syria.“Treasury Designates Al-Qa’ida-Linked Financial Facilitators in Turkey and Syria,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0293.

Al-Qaeda members were able to use bank accounts associated with al-Shaban to coordinate money transfers across North Africa, Western Europe, and North America. Additionally, al-Shaban coordinated the transfer of funds to Turkey. Al-Shaban allegedly operated in Manbij, Syria at some point.“Treasury Designates Al-Qa’ida-Linked Financial Facilitators in Turkey and Syria,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0293.

On July 28, 2021, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated al-Shaban as an SDN for assisting in and providing financial support to al-Qaeda.“Treasury Designates Al-Qa’ida-Linked Financial Facilitators in Turkey and Syria,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0293.

Farrukh Furkatovitch Fayzimatov is a U.S.-designated recruiter and financier for Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). On July 28. 2021, the U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Fayzimatov as a Specially Designated National (SDN) for providing financial and material support to a terror organization.“Treasury Designates Al-Qa’ida-Linked Financial Facilitators in Turkey and Syria,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0293.

Syria-based Fayzimatov allegedly utilized social media to post propaganda, recruit new members, and solicit donations for the internationally sanctioned HTS.“Treasury Designates Al-Qa’ida-Linked Financial Facilitators in Turkey and Syria,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0293; Thomas Joscelyn, “Al Qaeda and allies announce ‘new entity’ in Syria,” Long War Journal, January 28, 2017, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2017/01/al-qaeda-and-allies-announce-new-entity-in-syria.php. Fayzimatov also purchased equipment, particularly motorbikes, for HTS. The purchases were funded through community fundraising campaigns that Fayzimatov had organized.“Treasury Designates Al-Qa’ida-Linked Financial Facilitators in Turkey and Syria,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0293.

According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Fayzimatov holds a digital currency address listed as XBT 17a5bpKvEp1j1Trs4qTbcNZrby53JbaS9C.“Counter Terrorism Designations; Syria and Syria-Related Designations and Designations Updates,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/recent-actions/20210728. According to media sources, the wallet belonging to Fayzimatov made 24 transactions on the bitcoin blockchain. The wallet is now empty, but reportedly sent about 0.25 BTC in total.Cheyenne Ligon, “US Sanctions Bitcoin Address Belonging to Suspected Syria-Based Terrorist Fundraiser,” Coindesk, July 28, 2021, https://www.coindesk.com/us-sanctions-a-bitcoin-address-belonging-to-suspected-syria-based-terrorist-fundraiser.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury designated Fayzimatov on July 28, 2021, for materially assisting and providing financial support to HTS.“Treasury Designates Al-Qa’ida-Linked Financial Facilitators in Turkey and Syria,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, July 28, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0293.

Sa’id Ahmad Muhammad al-Jamal is a U.S.-designated, Iran-based financier.“Treasury Sanctions Network Financing Houthi Aggression and Instability in Yemen,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 10, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0221. Al-Jamal heads a network of front companies and vessels that generate millions of dollars in revenue to the Houthis in Yemen. The U.S. Department of the Treasury designated al-Jamal as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist on June 10, 2021, for his role in funding the destabilizing activities of the Houthis in both Yemen and Saudi Arabia.“Treasury Sanctions Network Financing Houthi Aggression and Instability in Yemen,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 10, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0221. On February 23, 2022, the Treasury Department designated additional members and entities of al-Jamal’s financial network, the activities and funds of which have contributed tens of millions of dollars towards the Houthis on-going offensive in Yemen.“Treasury Targets Key Houthi Finance Network in Coordination with Regional Gulf Partners,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 23, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0603.

On June 10, 2021, the U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions on al-Jamal and 11 other individuals and entities who comprise a smuggling network responsible for providing tens of millions of dollars of funds to the Houthis. The individuals and entities—who allegedly who allegedly are in cooperation with senior officials of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps- Quds Force (IRGC-QF)—sell commodities, such as Iranian petroleum, throughout the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. According to the Treasury Department, al-Jamal also maintains connections to Hezbollah as he works with the group to send tens of millions of dollars to support the Houthis and their operations.Aziz Yaakoubi, “U.S. sanctions Houthi military leaders as peace efforts stall,” Reuters, May 20, 2021, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-imposes-sanctions-two-houthi-military-leaders-2021-05-20/.

The seven designated individuals assisted al-Jamal in a variety of capacities including setting up bank accounts, procuring vessels, coordinating shipments of Iranian fuel, and facilitating transfers of funds to both the Houthis in Yemen and Hezbollah in Syria. Among the designations included Abdi Nasir Ali Mahamud, al-Jamal’s Turkey-based business partner whose businesses have served as a cover for al-Jamal’s activities.“Treasury Targets Key Houthi Finance Network in Coordination with Regional Gulf Partners,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 23, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0603.

On February 23, 2022, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated additional individuals and entities who belonged to al-Jamal and Mahamud’s financial and business network. Among the designations was Abdo Abdullah Dael Ahmed and his Yemen-based Moaz Abdalla Dael Import and Export business which has transferred over $10 million to al-Jamal. Also designated was Konstantinos Stavridis and his company, Fani Oil Trading FZE. Stavridis’ company reportedly purchased tens of millions of dollars of gasoline from al-Jamal and the proceeds were ultimately sent to the Houthis.“Treasury Targets Key Houthi Finance Network in Coordination with Regional Gulf Partners,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 23, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0603.

The proceeds of al-Jamal’s operations reportedly are funneled through an international network of intermediaries and money exchange houses including the U.S.-designated, Turkey-based Garanti Ihracat Ithalat Kuyumculuk Dis Ticareet Limited Sirketi, and the Yemen-based money exchange houses AlAlamiyah Express Company for Exchange and Remittance and Al-Hadha Exchange Co. According to the Department of the Treasury, Garanti Ihracat has facilitated millions of dollars of transactions for al-Jamal, and the Yemen-based money exchange houses moved over tens of millions of dollars in support of al-Jamal’s efforts to fund the Houthis.“Treasury Targets Key Houthi Finance Network in Coordination with Regional Gulf Partners,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 23, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0603.

Al-Jamal’s extensive network also includes shipping companies, such as Aurum Ship Management FZC which is based in India, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. The company—which was also designated by OFAC on February 23, 2021—manages ships connected to both al-Jamal and Mahamud and has transferred oil to Houthi-controlled ports in Yemen.“Treasury Targets Key Houthi Finance Network in Coordination with Regional Gulf Partners,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 23, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0603.

The revenue from al-Jamal’s extensive financial network have further supplemented the Houthis and their ongoing offensive on Yemeni soil.“Treasury Sanctions Network Financing Houthi Aggression and Instability in Yemen,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 10, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0221. As of December 2021, Yemen’s War has led to the death of more than 377,000 Yemeni citizens and remains the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.“UN humanitarian office puts Yemen war dead at 233,000, mostly from ‘indirect causes’,” United Nations, December 1, 2020, https://news.un.org/en/story/2020/12/1078972; “Yemen war deaths will reach 377,000 by end of the year: UN,” Al Jazeera, November 23, 2021, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/11/23/un-yemen-recovery-possible-in-one-generation-if-war-stops-now#:~:text=New%20UNDP%20report%20projects%20that,reach%201.3%20million%20by%202030.&text=A%20new%20United%20Nations%20report,of%20indirect%20and%20direct%20causes.

Ghazi Nassereddine is a U.S.-designated Hezbollah agent who attained a high-level diplomatic position in Venezuela’s government under deceased president Hugo Chavez, which he used to facilitate Hezbollah’s networks in South America.“Treasury Targets Hizballah in Venezuela,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 18, 2008, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/pages/hp1036.aspx. Nassereddine is wanted by the FBI for questioning in relation to Hezbollah’s activities in South America.“FBI Adds Lebanese Man to Seeking Information – Terrorism List,” FBI, January 29, 2015, https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/miami/news/press-releases/fbi-adds-lebanese-man-to-seeking-information-terrorism-list.

Born in Lebanon, Nassereddine moved to Venezuela in approximately 2000 and gained citizenship.“Testimony of Ambassador Roger F. Noriega Before the United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Peace Corps, and Global Narcotics Affairs,” U.S. Senate, February 16, 2012, https://www.foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Roger_Noriega_Testimony1.pdf. Under Chavez’s regime, Nassereddine served as Venezuela’s chargé d’affaires to Damascus, Syria. According to the U.S. government, Nassereddine used his diplomatic position to aid Hezbollah donors in directly transferring contributions to Hezbollah, including by providing specific information on bank accounts benefitting Hezbollah. He also facilitated the travel of Hezbollah members to and from Venezuela. In approximately 2008, Nassereddine became the director of Political Aspects at the Venezuelan embassy in Lebanon and used the position to further strengthen Hezbollah.“Treasury Targets Hizballah in Venezuela,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, June 18, 2008, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/pages/hp1036.aspx. In August 2010, Chavez hosted a summit in Caracas with a Hezbollah leader, Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad Secretary-General Ramadan Shallah. Nassereddine allegedly coordinated the logistics of the meeting, which was requested by Iran.“Hezbollah in Latin America – Implications for U.S. Homeland Security, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence of the Committee on Homeland Security House of Representatives One Hundred Twelfth Congress First Session, Govinfo.gov,  July 7, 2011, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CHRG-112hhrg72255/html/CHRG-112hhrg72255.htm/.

Nassereddine made high-level connections in South America during his government service, which he used for criminal activities. He worked directly with Venezuelan cocaine kingpin Walid Makled, who was later arrested in Colombia in 2010 on charges of smuggling 10 tons of cocaine a month to the United States.Hezbollah in Latin America – Implications for U.S. Homeland Security, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence of the Committee on Homeland Security House of Representatives One Hundred Twelfth Congress First Session, Govinfo.gov,  July 7, 2011, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CHRG-112hhrg72255/html/CHRG-112hhrg72255.htm/. Nassereddine worked with another official of Lebanese descent in Chavez’s government, Tareck El Aissami in Venezuela’s interior ministry. In 2009, Nassereddine arranged a meeting in Syria between Hezbollah operatives and former Venezuelan intelligence head Hugo Carvajal and El Aissami, who was then Venezuela’s interior minister. The Hezbollah agents reportedly gave Carvajal and El Aissami three assault rifles as gifts.Hagay Hacohen, “Venezuela ex-spy chief reveals Maduro’s ties to Hezbollah, drugs,” Jerusalem Post, February 24, 2019, https://www.jpost.com/omg/venezuela-ex-spy-chief-reveals-maduros-ties-to-hezbollah-drugs-581615. The meeting reportedly resulted in a 2014 cocaine-for-weapons deal between Hezbollah and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia—People’s Army (FARC), in which Hezbollah brought a cargo plane full of small arms to Caracas. The weapons were transferred to military base.Joseph M. Humire, “The Maduro-Hezbollah Nexus: How Iran-backed Networks Prop up the Venezuelan Regime,” Atlantic Council, October 7, 2020, https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/issue-brief/the-maduro-hezbollah-nexus-how-iran-backed-networks-prop-up-the-venezuelan-regime/. El Aissami is accused of working with Nassereddine to increase Iran’s influence in South America and recruit young Arab-Venezuelans for paramilitary training in Lebanon with Hezbollah. After Chavez’s death in 2013, Nassereddine continued a high-level relationship with new Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro. El Aissami was named vice president under Maduro in 2017. The United States, European Union, and Canada have levied sanctions on El Aissami and accuse him of drug smuggling.“Treasury Sanctions Prominent Venezuelan Drug Trafficker Tareck El Aissami and His Primary Frontman Samark Lopez Bello,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 13, 2017, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/as0005.aspx; Jim Wyss, “European Union hits 11 more Venezuelans with sanctions,” Miami Herald, June 25, 2018, https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/venezuela/article213778194.html; “Venezuelan sanctions,” Government of Canada, September 22, 2017, https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2017/09/venezuela_sanctions.html. The U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement added El Aissami to its most-wanted list in 2019.“Former vice president of Venezuela Tareck El Aissami and Venezuelan businessman Samark Lopez Bello added to ICE’s Most Wanted List for international narcotics trafficking, money laundering,” U.S. ICE, August 14, 2019, https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/former-vice-president-venezuela-tareck-el-aissami-and-venezuelan-businessman-samark.

The Nasseredine clan is one of a handful of Lebanese families in South America accused of providing support for Hezbollah and is allegedly linked to the Maduro regime in Venezuela.Joseph M. Humire, “The Maduro-Hezbollah Nexus: How Iran-backed Networks Prop up the Venezuelan Regime,” Atlantic Council, October 7, 2020, https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/issue-brief/the-maduro-hezbollah-nexus-how-iran-backed-networks-prop-up-the-venezuelan-regime. Nassereddine’s family has built relationships throughout South America’s Muslim communities. Nassereddine has worked with two of his brothers to fundraise, launder money, and recruit for Hezbollah. As of 2011, his brother Abdallah Nassereddine worked with the Federation of Arab and American Associations (FEARAB), which has affiliates across South America and the Caribbean. Another brother, Oday Nassereddine, has worked to recruit through the pro-Chavez Circulos Bolivarianos (Bolivian Circles) in Barquisimeto, Venezuela.Hezbollah in Latin America – Implications for U.S. Homeland Security, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence of the Committee on Homeland Security House of Representatives One Hundred Twelfth Congress First Session, Govinfo.gov,  July 7, 2011, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CHRG-112hhrg72255/html/CHRG-112hhrg72255.htm/. Critics have compared the Circulos Bolivarianos to militias that have used force against anti-government demonstrators.Greg Morsbach, “Chavez accused of fostering militia links,” BBC News, June 12, 2002, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/2038827.stm. In 2013, Ghazi and Oday Nassereddine reportedly traveled to Cancun, Mexico, to meet with the Los Zetas drug cartel to negotiate passage into the United States for Hezbollah agents in exchange for facilitating cocaine shipments to the Middle East.Gustavo Sierra, “Hezbollah en la Triple Frontera: los predicadores que llegan en el vuelo de ‘Aeroterror,’” InfoBae, January 10, 20219, https://www.infobae.com/america/america-docs/2019/01/10/hezbollah-en-la-triple-frontera-los-predicadores-que-llegan-en-el-vuelo-de-aeroterror/.

Nassereddine reportedly left Syria in 2011.Florencia Montaruli, “Tareck El Aissami: Hezbollah’s Biggest Benefactor in Venezuela,” Iran Wire, May 4, 2021, https://iranwire.com/en/features/9471. In January 2015, the FBI reportedly believed Nassereddine was in southern Florida fundraising for Hezbollah.Mike LaChance, “FBI searching for suspected Hezbollah agent in Florida,” Legal Insurrection, January 31, 2015, https://legalinsurrection.com/2015/01/fbi-searching-for-suspected-hezbollah-agent-in-florida/. He later took over as head of the Venezuelan thinktank Global AZ, which claims on its Facebook page to offer political and geopolitical analysis.GlobalAZ, Facebook page, accessed June 9, 2021, https://www.facebook.com/cdaglobalaz/?ref=page_internal. Nassereddine reportedly continued to lead the organization as of October 2020,Joseph M. Humire, “The Maduro-Hezbollah Nexus: How Iran-backed Networks Prop up the Venezuelan Regime,” Atlantic Council, October 7, 2020, https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/issue-brief/the-maduro-hezbollah-nexus-how-iran-backed-networks-prop-up-the-venezuelan-regime/. but the group’s website, www.globalaz.com/ve, was defunct as of June 2021. Its Facebook page remained online with broken links to articles authored by Nassereddine. The last article posted was dated October 2019 about the United States employing puppets in international agencies. Nassereddine wrote a January 2016 articled called, “Saudi Arabia, the American Monarchy.”GlobalAZ, Facebook page, accessed June 9, 2021, https://www.facebook.com/cdaglobalaz/?ref=page_internal. As of June 9, 2021, Nassereddine’s Twitter account still listed his position as president of Global AZ. The account listed his location as “Con Maduro,” or “With Maduro.”Ghazi Atef, Twitter account, accessed June 9, 2021, https://twitter.com/GhaziAtef.

Ibrahim Ali Daher is the U.S.-designated chief of Hezbollah’s Central Financial Unit.“Treasury Targets Hizballah Finance Official and Shadow Bankers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, May 11, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0170. As the head of the Central Financial Unit—one of the eight subunits of Hezbollah’s Executive Council—Daher oversees and directs Hezbollah’s financial operations.“Treasury Targets Hizballah Finance Official and Shadow Bankers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, May 11, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0170; “Organizational Chart,” Eye on Hezbollah, https://hezbollah.org/organizational-chart.

According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Daher has been a key figure in Hezbollah’s financial infrastructure for over a decade.“Treasury Targets Hizballah Finance Official and Shadow Bankers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, May 11, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0170. The Central Finance Unit in conjunction with the Bayt al-Mal—an Islamic financial institution that fulfills some of the functions of a bank—serve as Hezbollah’s finance ministry.“Funding terrorism: Hezbollah uses its websites to collect donations for itself and for its affiliated institutions in Lebanon and elsewhere in the world. The donations are deposited in bank accounts in Lebanon and Europe,” Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center at the Israel Intelligence and Commemoration Center, May 26, 2008, https://www.terrorism-info.org.il/Data/pdf/PDF_08_120_2.pdf. Headed by Daher, the Central Finance Unit is also comprised of dozens of officers who help Daher manage and audit the budgets of all Hezbollah units and departments. Additionally, the finance unit follows general directions on where to distribute funds from Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah.“Treasury Targets Hizballah Finance Official and Shadow Bankers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, May 11, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0170.

On May 11, 2021, the U.S. Treasury Department designated Daher as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) for his role as the chief of Hezbollah’s Central Finance Unit. Six other individuals were designated alongside Daher. Those individuals—which included Ahmad Mohamed Yazbeck, the financial director of Hezbollah’s financial firm, Al-Qard al-Hassan (AQAH)—participated in the “shadow banking” activities of Hezbollah. Accordingly, they maintained joint bank accounts in Lebanese banks on behalf of Hezbollah, allowing the group to transfer money within the formal financial system.“Treasury Targets Hizballah Finance Official and Shadow Bankers in Lebanon,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, May 11, 2021, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0170; “US Treasury sanctions 7 Lebanese tied to Hezbollah finances,” Associated Press, May 11, 2021, https://apnews.com/article/hezbollah-middle-east-lebanon-financial-markets-business-3056889c5315ebe82a2db64d2041765e.

On December 1, 2022, The U.S. government levied sanctions on the Lebanon-based Auditors for Accounting and Auditing (a.k.a. Auditors), of which Daher is a majority owner and managing partner. According to the Department of the Treasury, Auditors provided financial services to Hezbollah’s Central Finance Unit. Daher held a managerial role in the company for years, according to Treasury.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Accountants and Weapons Facilitator,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, December 1, 2022, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy1135.

Ali Qasir is a U.S.-designated Lebanese national who facilitates financial and commercial activities between Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps-Quds Force (IRGC-QF) and Hezbollah.“Treasury Designates Vast Iranian Petroleum Shipping Network That Supports IRGC-QF and Terror Proxies,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, September 4, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm767; “Act of Terror Information on...Lebanese Hizballah’s Financial Network,” Rewards for Justice, https://rewardsforjustice.net/english/lebanese_hizballah_financial_network.html. The U.S.-designated IRGC-QF specializes in foreign missions, providing training, funding, and weapons to extremist groups, including Iraqi insurgents, Hezbollah, and Hamas. On September 4, 2019, Qasir was designated by the U.S Department of the Treasury as a Specially Designated National for his association with the IRGC-QF.“Treasury Designates Vast Iranian Petroleum Shipping Network That Supports IRGC-QF and Terror Proxies,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, September 4, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm767.

Qasir is the managing director of the Syria-based Talaqi Group, and a representative of the Lebanon-based Hokoul S.A.L. Offshore company (Hokoul). Both companies were founded by Muhammad Qasim al-Bazzal, a U.S.-designated Lebanese businessman who conducted oil shipments and dealings for the IRGC-QF to help fund Hezbollah’s activities.“Treasury Designates Illicit Russia-Iran Oil Network Supporting the Assad Regime, Hizballah, and HAMAS,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, November 20, 2018, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm553; “Act of Terror Information on...Lebanese Hizballah’s Financial Network,” Rewards for Justice, https://rewardsforjustice.net/english/lebanese_hizballah_financial_network.html. Under the Talaqi Group, Qasir has allegedly negotiated and facilitated the sale of tens of millions of dollars’ worth of steel, and through Hokoul, Qasir has facilitated the delivery of Iranian crude oil to Syria. Under the guidance of the IRGC-QF, Qasir reportedly assigns maritime vessels to deliver shipments to Hezbollah. Specifically, Qasir facilitated an oil shipment by the Iranian tanker ADRIAN DARYA 1, for the IRGC-QF.“Act of Terror Information on...Lebanese Hizballah’s Financial Network,” Rewards for Justice, https://rewardsforjustice.net/english/lebanese_hizballah_financial_network.html. Although the tanker has attempted to offload cargo—allegedly oil—in Syria in July and September of 2019, it is uncertain if Qasir was involved in those specific shipments.“Iranian Tanker Adrian Darya 1 Offloads Oil Cargo in Syria,” Maritime Executive, October 9, 2019, https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/iranian-tanker-adrian-darya-1-offloads-oil-cargo-in-syria.

Additionally, Qasir is the business associate and nephew of Muhammad Jafar Qasir, a financial conduit for the IRGC-QF who has overseen various companies complicit in the selling of crude oil, condensate, and gas oil to evade U.S. sanctions placed on the IRGC-QF.“This Week in Iran Policy,” U.S. Department of State, October 30, 2020, https://www.state.gov/this-week-in-iran-policy-23/.

Given Qasir’s role in facilitating the financial channels between the IRGC-QF and Hezbollah, the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control designated Qasir as a Specially Designated National on September 4, 2019.“Counter Terrorism Designations; Iran-related Designations,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, September 4, 2019, https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/recent-actions/20190904. On October 23, 2020, the U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program offered a reward of up to $10 million for information on Qasir.“This Week in Iran Policy,” U.S. Department of State, October 30, 2020, https://www.state.gov/this-week-in-iran-policy-23/.

Muhammad Jafar Qasir is a U.S.-designated Lebanese financial facilitator for Hezbollah. Qasir served as a key facilitator for financial disbursements from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps-Quds Force (IRGC-QF) to Hezbollah.“Treasury Targets Iran’s Central Bank Governor and an Iraqi Bank Moving Millions of Dollars for IRGC-Qods Force,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, May 18, 2018, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm0385. The U.S.-designated IRGC-QF specializes in foreign missions, providing training, funding, and weapons to extremist groups, including Iraqi insurgents, Hezbollah, and Hamas. On May 15, 2018, Qasir was designated by the U.S Department of the Treasury as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist for his association with Hezbollah.“Treasury Targets Iran’s Central Bank Governor and an Iraqi Bank Moving Millions of Dollars for IRGC-Qods Force,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, May 18, 2018, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm0385.

Qasir has acted as a financial conduit for the IRGC-QF as he and other Hezbollah officials have overseen various companies complicit in the selling of crude oil, condensate, and gas oil to evade U.S. sanctions placed on the IRGC-QF.“This Week in Iran Policy,” U.S. Department of State, October 30, 2020, https://www.state.gov/this-week-in-iran-policy-23/.

Qasir is allegedly a critical link between Hezbollah and Iran as he developed the financial and logistical pipelines for weapons transportation between the IRGC-QF and Hezbollah. Qasir was a confidante of former IRGC-QF commander Qasem Soleimani and he also maintains close ties to Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah.Matthew Levitt, “Hezbollah’s Procurement Channels: Leveraging Criminal Networks and Partnering with Iran,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, March 2019, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/uploads/Documents/pubs/CTC-SENTINEL-032019.pdf.

Qasir also reportedly directs Hezbollah Unit 108—the unit that assists in the transfer of weapons, technology, and other support from Syria to Lebanon.“Rewards for Justice – Up to $10 Million Reward Offer for Information on Hizballah’s Financial Networks: Muhammad Qasir, Muhammad Qasim al-Bazzal, and Ali Qasir,” U.S. Department of State, October 23, 2020, https://www.state.gov/rewards-for-justice-up-to-10-million-reward-offer-for-information-on-hizballahs-financial-networks-muhammad-qasir-muhammad-qasim-al-bazzal-and-ali-qasir/; Matthew Levitt, “Hezbollah’s Procurement Channels: Leveraging Criminal Networks and Partnering with Iran,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, March 2019, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/uploads/Documents/pubs/CTC-SENTINEL-032019.pdf. Additionally, Qasir works closely with officers from the Quds Force’s Unit 190—which reportedly specializes in smuggling weapons to Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, and Gaza.Matthew Levitt, “Hezbollah’s Procurement Channels: Leveraging Criminal Networks and Partnering with Iran,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, March 2019, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/uploads/Documents/pubs/CTC-SENTINEL-032019.pdf.

On April 17, 2018, Qasir and a Syrian associate received over $63 million to benefit Hezbollah, a figure which he confirmed in a letter to a senior official at the Central Bank of Iran.“Treasury Designates Illicit Russia-Iran Oil Network Supporting the Assad Regime, Hizballah, and HAMAS,” U.S. Department of Treasury, November 20, 2018, https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm553; Matthew Levitt, “Hezbollah’s Procurement Channels: Leveraging Criminal Networks and Partnering with Iran,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, March 2019, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/uploads/Documents/pubs/CTC-SENTINEL-032019.pdf. Given his role in financing Hezbollah’s activities, the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control designated Qasir as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist on May 15, 2018.“Rewards for Justice – Up to $10 Million Reward Offer for Information on Hizballah’s Financial Networks: Muhammad Qasir, Muhammad Qasim al-Bazzal, and Ali Qasir,” U.S. Department of State, October 23, 2020, https://www.state.gov/rewards-for-justice-up-to-10-million-reward-offer-for-information-on-hizballahs-financial-networks-muhammad-qasir-muhammad-qasim-al-bazzal-and-ali-qasir/.

On February 25, 2019, Qasir accompanied former IRGC-QF commander Qasem Soleimani as a notetaker for meetings between Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.Matthew Levitt, “Hezbollah’s Procurement Channels: Leveraging Criminal Networks and Partnering with Iran,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, March 2019, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/uploads/Documents/pubs/CTC-SENTINEL-032019.pdf.

On October 23, 2020, the U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program offered a reward of up to $10 million for information on Qasir.“This Week in Iran Policy,” U.S. Department of State, October 30, 2020, https://www.state.gov/this-week-in-iran-policy-23/.

Abd Al Nur Shalan is a U.S.-designated Lebanese businessman who has served as Hezbollah’s point person for the coordination, procurement, and shipment of weapons and materials for Hezbollah’s Syrian partners.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leaders, Military Officials, And An Associate In Lebanon,” United States Department of the Treasury, July 21, 2015, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl0121.aspx. A key facilitator for Hezbollah’s weapons smuggling, Shalan was designated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury as a Specially Designated National on July 21, 2015.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leaders, Military Officials, And An Associate In Lebanon,” United States Department of the Treasury, July 21, 2015, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl0121.aspx.

Since 2000, Shalan has allegedly been Hezbollah’s point person for weapons transfer to the group’s Syrian partners.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leaders, Military Officials, And An Associate In Lebanon,” United States Department of the Treasury, July 21, 2015, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl0121.aspx. In November 2009, Shalan coordinated with Hezbollah and Syrian officials to procure and deliver thousands of rifles to Syria.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leaders, Military Officials, And An Associate In Lebanon,” United States Department of the Treasury, July 21, 2015, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl0121.aspx. Shalan is reportedly a close associate of Muhammad Qasir, the head of Hezbollah Unit 108—a division that assists in the transfer of weapons, technology, and other support from Syria to Lebanon.Matthew Levitt, “Hezbollah’s Procurement Channels: Leveraging Criminal Networks and Partnering with Iran,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, March 2019, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/uploads/Documents/pubs/CTC-SENTINEL-032019.pdf.

Since the start of the Syrian conflict, Shalan has facilitated the supply of weapons, including small arms, to Hezbollah personnel in Syria as he ensured that items purchased by Hezbollah would make it through customs in Syria. In 2010, Shalan brokered a business deal that involved Hezbollah, Syrian officials, and companies in Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine, to purchase and sell weapons. That same year, Shalan acquired tons of anhydride for Hezbollah. Anhydride is a chemical agent which is used in the production of explosives and narcotics.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leaders, Military Officials, And An Associate In Lebanon,” United States Department of the Treasury, July 21, 2015, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl0121.aspx.

In 2014, Shalan allegedly used an undisclosed company as a cover to hide weapons-related material for Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leaders, Military Officials, And An Associate In Lebanon,” United States Department of the Treasury, July 21, 2015, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl0121.aspx.

On July 21, 2015, the U.S. Department of Treasury designated Abd Al Nur Shalan as a Specially Designated National for acting on behalf of Hezbollah.“Treasury Sanctions Hizballah Leaders, Military Officials, And An Associate In Lebanon,” United States Department of the Treasury, July 21, 2015, https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl0121.aspx. Despite the designation, Shalan co-founded a new business, Orient Star LLC, in Damascus in September 2016.Albin Szakola, “Syrian Accountant’s Alleged Hezbollah Fronts,” Levant Networks, January 23, 2020, http://www.levantnetworks.com/2020/01/23/syrian-accountants-alleged-hezbollah-fronts/. Given Shalan’s association with Hezbollah, Saudi Arabia blacklisted Shalan, along with 11 others, on November 27, 2015, as they served as “entities acting as investment arms for activities of the party’s malicious activities beyond the borders of Lebanon.”Mohamed Al-Sulami, “Hezbollah activists’ assets in KSA frozen,” Arab News, November 27, 2020, https://www.arabnews.com/featured/news/841756.