WASHINGTON — The United States has imposed economic sanctions on four European-based organizers and activists linked to the “Global Sumud Flotilla,” a maritime aid convoy attempting to breach Israel’s naval blockade of the Gaza Strip.
The measures, announced on Tuesday by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), target individuals accused of coordinating the convoy through networks that Washington alleges maintain ties to Hamas.
Individuals Targeted
The four blacklisted individuals are:
Saif Hashim Kamel Abukeshek: A steering committee member of the flotilla.
Hisham Abdallah Sulayman Abu Mahfouz: Acting secretary-general and president of the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad (PCPA).
Mohammed Khatib: European coordinator for the group Samidoun.
Jaldia Abubakra Aueda: Madrid-based coordinator for Samidoun.
According to U.S. officials, the activists orchestrated the convoy via the PCPA, a Palestinian diaspora organization that was previously placed under U.S. sanctions in January for allegedly serving as a front group for Hamas.
Interception at Sea
The sanctions come as the convoy faces major operational hurdles. Organizers stated that the Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of over 50 vessels, departed from the Turkish port of Marmaris last week in a high-profile bid to deliver humanitarian aid directly to the Gaza coast. However, the multi-nation fleet was intercepted by Israeli naval forces in international waters, with dozens of boats reportedly halted or boarded.
Washington’s Stance
In an official statement, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent strongly criticized the maritime initiative, characterizing it as aligned with illicit networks rather than genuine humanitarian activism.
“The pro-terror flotilla attempting to reach Gaza is a ludicrous attempt to undermine President Trump’s successful progress toward lasting peace in the region,” Bessent said.
The Treasury added that the U.S. administration remains committed to dismantling global financial and logistical support networks linked to Hamas, regardless of where they operate.
