US issues new sanctions on Hamas post-attacks, Russia's Hamas invitation sparks criticism

The United States has implemented a second round of sanctions on the Palestinian group Hamas in response to its recent attack on Israeli communities.

The US Treasury Department, in a statement issued on Friday, disclosed that the sanctions target additional assets within Hamas's investment portfolio and individuals involved in facilitating sanctions evasion for Hamas-affiliated entities.

Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo emphasized the US commitment to dismantling Hamas's funding networks. The measures include targeting a Hamas official in Iran and members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The Treasury Department also identified a Gaza-based entity acting as a conduit for illicit Iranian funds to Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) group.

Iran's support for Hamas and other militant groups in the Middle East underscores the complexity of regional dynamics.

Meanwhile, Russia has come under criticism for its decision to host a delegation from Hamas in Moscow. Despite strong criticism from Israel, Russia defended the move, stating that it is essential to maintain contact with all sides in the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Israel, which has vowed to retaliate against Hamas for an October 7 attack that claimed 1,400 lives, condemned Russia's decision as "deplorable" and urged the expulsion of the Hamas delegation.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that the Hamas delegation did not meet with President Vladimir Putin or other top officials but engaged with representatives of Russia's foreign ministry.

Russia's diplomatic approach aims to keep communication channels open with key players in the Middle East, including Israel, Iran, Syria, and the Western-backed Palestinian Authority.

Amidst the geopolitical tensions, a medical team and 10 aid trucks entered the Gaza Strip through the Rafah crossing with Egypt. The convoy carried essential supplies, including water, food, and medicine.

The UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Lynn Hastings, revealed ongoing negotiations with Israel to secure additional humanitarian crossings into the Israeli-besieged Gaza Strip.

The region has faced relentless Israeli airstrikes in response to a cross-border attack by Hamas gunmen on southern Israel on October 7, resulting in thousands of casualties.