The United States Department of State has taken decisive action in the fight against terrorism by designating several individuals linked to Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and al-Murabitoun as Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGT).
Among the individuals designated, Messaoud Belhireche, also known as Usama Abu-‘Abd-al-Wahid al-Jaza’iri, and Talha al-Libi, also known as Sidi Mohamed Ould Mohamed Salem, were recognized for their roles within JNIM. Belhireche was identified as a senior JNIM leader overseeing the group's finances, while al-Libi was highlighted as the JNIM emir of Timbuktu and leader of the al-Furqan Battalion.
Additionally, Hamama Ould Khouier, also known as Hamza Tabankort, and Hussein Ould Hammada, also known as Zakaria Tabankort, were designated for their involvement with al-Murabitoun. Khouier, the emir of al-Murabitoun, played a significant role in hostage negotiations, including those concerning Western hostages, while Hammada, the deputy leader, was implicated in multiple attacks and kidnappings of Westerners.
The Department of State also singled out Iyad ag Ghali, also known as Iyad Ag Ghaly, for his leadership and founding roles in both JNIM and Ansar al-Dine (AAD).
The actions taken by the Department of State are part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorist organizations operating in Mali and the broader Sahel region. These designations serve to disrupt the financial networks and activities of groups like JNIM and al-Murabitoun, which have been responsible for numerous kidnappings and attacks in the region.
The State Department emphasized that all property and interests in property of the designated individuals that fall under U.S. jurisdiction are now blocked, and U.S. persons are prohibited from engaging in transactions with them.
For individuals seeking removal from the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN) List, the Department provided contact information for petition submissions.
This latest move underscores the United States' unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of American citizens both at home and abroad.
