Cape News

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has imposed sanctions on Samidoun, labeling it as a "sham charity" that acts as an international fundraiser for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a designated terrorist organization. This action follows recommendations from Ways and Means Republicans to revoke tax-exempt status for organizations linked to foreign terrorist entities.

Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith expressed approval of the Treasury's decision, stating, "I am encouraged that Treasury is finally acting on calls by Ways and Means Republicans to go after organizations tied to foreign terrorist organizations." He further emphasized that American taxpayers are dismayed to learn their funds have supported groups like Samidoun, which allegedly engage in illegal activities domestically while aiding terrorist groups abroad.

According to evidence gathered by the Ways and Means Committee, Samidoun is among several organizations accused of promoting antisemitic activities and violating laws. Chairman Smith urged the Biden-Harris Administration to swiftly revoke tax-exempt status for any group involved in supporting terrorism.

In collaboration with Canada, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced its designation of Samidoun as a sham charity connected with PFLP. The PFLP was classified as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. Department of State in 1997 and as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in 2001.

Republicans from Ways and Means had previously addressed IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel in September, highlighting concerns about Samidoun receiving tax-exempt dollars despite its alleged ties to inciting violence: "The Alliance for Global Justice, in conjunction with its fiscally sponsored project, Samidoun, has funded and supported conduct intended to incite violence and instill chaos."

The series of letters sent by Ways and Means Republicans outlines specific evidence suggesting these organizations are engaged in illegal activities or coordination with foreign terrorist groups, actions inconsistent with their tax-exempt purposes.