US-Canada target Samidoun as ‘sham charity’

US and Canada have jointly targeted Samidoun Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network, calling it a “sham charity” and warning of potential criminal charges for supporters. The US Treasury Department sanctioned the group, while Canada designated it as a terrorist entity, citing ties to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP).

Samidoun, established in 2011, has faced criticism as a front for the PFLP, with Israel, the Netherlands, and Germany also listing it as a terror organization. Despite denials of terror links, the group’s activities have drawn scrutiny, leading to sanctions on its leaders, including Khaled Barakat.

The move has sparked controversy and debate within advocacy groups, raising concerns about political views being labeled as terrorist activities. The US and Canada have yet to detail how funds were allegedly funneled to the PFLP, but the crackdown reflects a broader trend of targeting organizations with ties to armed groups in the region.