The EU is targeting members and supporters of radical Islamist Hamas with a new sanctions instrument. In a first phase, six people received punitive measures on Friday, according to the Official Journal of the EU.
Among them are donors from Sudan and Algeria, as well as men believed to be involved in money laundering and money transfer activities for the benefit of the organization. Musa Muhammad Salim Dudin is also affected. According to the EU, he is a senior figure in Hamas and a member of the group's Politburo.
As a result of the EU sanctions decision, all funds, as well as other financial assets and economic resources of those affected, would now have to be frozen in the EU. Furthermore, they are no longer allowed to enter the EU and receive goods and economic resources from the EU.
Russia asks Hamas to release hostages
Meanwhile, Russia appealed to Hamas in negotiations in Moscow to release all hostages kidnapped from Israel to the Gaza Strip. In a meeting with Hamas Politburo member Moussa Abu Marsuk, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov highlighted the “need for the rapid release of civilians captured in the October 7 attacks”, according to his ministry.