Kuwait Lists 8 Lebanese Hospitals on Terror Finance Watchlist
Kuwait has been directed to implement financial restrictions on eight Lebanese hospitals, according to a decision made by a committee overseeing the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions related to counter-terrorism and the prevention of weapons proliferation. The directive mandates that all Kuwaiti financial institutions and companies adhere to this listing.
The Scope of the Restrictions
The committee, acting either independently or at the request of a competent foreign or domestic authority, designates individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activities. This includes those who have committed, attempted to commit, participated in, or facilitated terrorist acts. The listing triggers specific financial measures.
Hospitals Included in the Listing
The following hospitals in Lebanon have been added to the national list for Kuwaiti financial institutions: Sheikh Ragheb Harb University Hospital (Nabatieh), Salah Ghandour Hospital (Bint Jbeil), Al-Amal Hospital (Baalbek), St. George Hospital (Hadath), Dar Al-Hikma Hospital (Baalbek), Al-Batool Hospital (Hermel, Bekaa), Al-Shifaa Hospital (Khaldé), and Al-Rasoul Al-A’zam Hospital (Beirut).
Legal Basis for the Decision
The committee has requested the enforcement of this listing in accordance with Articles 21, 22, and 23 of its executive regulations. These articles outline the specific obligations imposed on individuals and institutions regarding the handling of funds and economic resources linked to designated persons.
Article 21 requires the immediate and unconditional freezing of funds and economic resources owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by designated individuals or those acting on their behalf. This extends to individuals designated by previous UN Security Council resolutions beyond Resolution 1373.
Article 22 broadens the scope of the freeze to include any funds or economic resources derived from or generated by those initially targeted. Article 23 prohibits any person within Kuwait, or any Kuwaiti citizen abroad, from making funds or economic resources available to a designated person, or providing financial services to them, directly or indirectly.
Article 24 mandates that anyone implementing the freeze notify the committee within 24 hours, detailing the actions taken regarding the frozen funds and providing any relevant information. The committee will cooperate with supervisory authorities to verify the accuracy of the reported information.
Potential Implications
The implementation of these restrictions could potentially disrupt the financial operations of the listed hospitals. These hospitals may face challenges in receiving or transferring funds, potentially impacting their ability to provide services. However, the regulations specifically exclude the addition of accrued interest on frozen accounts.
We see also possible that Kuwaiti financial institutions will increase scrutiny of transactions involving Lebanese entities to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Further action by the committee could include the addition of individuals associated with these hospitals to the designated list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted this decision by the committee?
The committee acted based on suspicions that the listed hospitals may be involved in activities related to terrorism or the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, as outlined in UN Security Council resolutions.
What does “freezing funds” entail?
Freezing funds means that all financial transactions involving the designated hospitals’ assets are prohibited, preventing them from being accessed or utilized.
Are there any exceptions to these restrictions?
The regulations specifically state that the addition of accrued interest on frozen accounts is not prohibited.
How might these restrictions impact healthcare access in Lebanon?