Here is the article in markdown format:
Financial Crime Enforcement Agencies in Lebanon Target Key Hizballah Supporters
In a significant move to combat terrorist financing, financial crime enforcement agencies in Lebanon have taken action against several key supporters of Hizballah. The US Department of the Treasury has designated four individuals and companies for providing support to the notorious militant group.
Individuals and Companies Designated by the US Treasury
- Adham Tabaja: a member of Hizballah who owns Al-Inmaa Group for Tourism Works, a real estate development and construction firm with subsidiaries operating in Lebanon and Iraq.
- Kassem Hejeij: a Lebanese businessman who has provided financial support to Hizballah.
- Husayn Ali Faour: a member of Hizballah’s Islamic Jihad unit responsible for carrying out terrorist activities overseas.
- Car Care Center: a front company used to supply vehicles to the group.
Use of Legitimate Businesses for Funding and Support
According to officials, these individuals and companies have been using legitimate businesses to fund and support Hizballah’s subversive activities. The US Department of the Treasury has taken action under Executive Order 13224, which targets terrorists and those providing support to them.
Consequences of Designation
As a result of this designation:
- All assets held by these individuals and companies in the United States or controlled by US persons are frozen.
- US persons are prohibited from engaging in transactions with them.
Ongoing Efforts to Target Hizballah’s Activities
The move is seen as part of ongoing efforts by financial crime enforcement agencies in Lebanon to target Hizballah’s commercial and terrorist activities. The group has been known to exploit the legitimate commercial sector for financial support, organizational infrastructure, and material goods such as vehicles and construction services.
Statement from Acting Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence
“Hizballah is responsible for perpetrating terrorism and fomenting instability worldwide,” said Acting Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Adam J. Szubin. “The United States will pursue any individual or company that supports Hizballah’s activities.”
Continued Exploitation of the Legitimate Commercial Sector
This action underscores the direct ties between Hizballah’s commercial and terrorist activities, as well as the group’s continued exploitation of the legitimate commercial sector for financial, organizational, and material support.
International Cooperation to Disrupt Hizballah’s Financial Networks
Lebanon’s financial crime enforcement agencies have been working closely with international partners to disrupt Hizballah’s financial networks and prevent the group from using legitimate businesses to fund its subversive activities.