On Friday, October 2, 2026, the United States imposed sanctions on two French citizens and the organizations they created, accusing them of having collected more than two million dollars for the benefit of Hamas under the guise of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The individuals, identified as Jean-Luc Moreau and Sophie Dubois, were alleged to have operated under the names of Solidarity for Gaza and Human Aid Network. The U.S. government claims these groups collected funds under the pretense of providing assistance to civilians in Gaza but instead directed the money to Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and several other countries.
The sanctions include restrictions on the individuals' ability to travel to the United States and limitations on their access to U.S. financial systems. The U.S. Treasury Department stated that the actions were taken to prevent the flow of financial resources to groups that pose a threat to international security. The department emphasized that the funds collected were allegedly used to support Hamas’s military and political activities, which the U.S. considers a significant risk to global stability.
The French government has not yet officially commented on the sanctions, though diplomatic channels suggest that France may raise concerns about the U.S. action. France has historically maintained a more neutral stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy. However, the U.S. allegations could strain bilateral relations, particularly if France believes the accusations are not fully substantiated.
The case highlights the growing concern among Western governments about the misuse of humanitarian aid to fund groups involved in conflict. Similar incidents have occurred in the past, with various organizations being investigated or sanctioned for funneling resources to groups designated as terrorist entities. The U.S. action underscores the increasing scrutiny placed on non-governmental organizations and individuals operating in conflict zones.
U.S. Imposes Sanctions on French Citizens and Organizations Linked to Hamas Funding
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