The General Secretariat of the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad has strongly condemned the recent decision by the United States Treasury Department to impose sanctions on the conference. A leading figure within the organization characterized the move as a blatant demonstration of unwavering US support for the Israeli occupation and its policies against the Palestinian people.
Majed Al-Zeer, Deputy Head of the General Secretariat, stated that the sanctions represent a deliberate attempt to stifle the activities of Palestinians striving to reclaim their rights through international law. He described the decision as unjust and unfair, asserting that it lacks any credible legal basis and ignores the true nature of the work carried out by the Palestinian people and their institutions.
Al-Zeer emphasized that the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad operates as a grassroots organization within the global Palestinian community. He explained that it organizes activities and events, with members and affiliates representing the diverse spectrum of the Palestinian population across generations and nationalities. “We are an integral part of the Palestinian movement working to restore our rights,” Al-Zeer affirmed.
The US Treasury Department’s action includes the Popular Conference alongside six other organizations operating in Gaza. These entities are accused of supporting Hamas. The US State Department alleges that these organizations, while ostensibly providing medical care to Palestinian civilians, are in reality providing support to the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas.
The US Treasury Department claims that the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad is being sanctioned for its alleged covert support of the al-Qassam Brigades and for engaging in deceptive fundraising practices that undermine aid intended for civilians. The Conference has yet to issue an official detailed response to the specific allegations made by the US Treasury.
The sanctions have sparked widespread criticism and calls for a thorough review of the decision, with many arguing that it unfairly targets a legitimate organization working to advocate for Palestinian rights.
