Mr. Sanctions

Category: SECO (Switzerland)

  • September 8, 2026: SECO updates its ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida sanctions lists

    The FINMA Notice:

    Updated sanctions notice: ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida

    By decision of 4 September 2026, the competent UN Sanctions Committee amended the list of persons, companies and organizations sanctioned in this context. The amendment is directly applicable in Switzerland. SECO has therefore updated SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), the sanctions database that is authoritative for Switzerland, on 7 September 2026, and has published the update on its website.

    Financial intermediaries are required, in accordance with the provisions of the Ordinance, to implement the prohibitions, freeze the assets of the sanctioned persons, and report the affected business relationships to SECO. Reporting to SECO does not relieve a financial intermediary of the obligation to carry out additional clarifications pursuant to Art. 6 AMLA in the event of suspicion and, if such suspicion cannot be dispelled, to file a report without delay with the Money Laundering Reporting Office pursuant to Art. 9 AMLA.

    The update:

    Ordinance on measures against certain persons, groups, undertakings and organizations associated with the organizations ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida – Art. 3 para. 1 and 2 (Financial sanctions) and Art. 4 (Entry and transit ban). Origin: UN

    Amended – Individuals

    SSID: 500-94433
    Foreign identifier: QDi.436
    Name: Abubakar Swalleh
    Sex: M
    DOB: a) 13 Jan 1992 b) 16 Mar 1993
    POB: Mengo, Uganda
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Abubaker Swaleh b) Tom Kiyurige c) Isaac Mupeta
    Address: Luzira Prison, Luzira, Kampala, Uganda
    Nationality: Uganda
    Identification document: a) Passport No. A00195974, Uganda, Expiry date: 16 Dec 2029 b) Other No. CM920231090NZA, Uganda (National identification number) c) Other No. Z15105123, Zambia, Date of issue: 5 Aug 2020 (National identification number (fraudulently acquired under the name Isaac Mupeta, born 9 May 1993 in Lusaka, Zambia, registration number 102523/29/1))
    Other information: Abubakar Swalleh provides financial, material, or technological support for, or financial or other services to, or in support of, ISIL (listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (QDe.115). He acted, since 2018, as an ISIL facilitator who provides financial and logistic support including recruitment for ISIL in East and Southern Africa. Phone number: +963936016952. Photo available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 16 Jun 2025, amended on 14 Aug 2026, 4 Sep 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Identification document: Added clause c): “Other No. Z15105123, Zambia, Date of issue: 5 Aug 2020 (National identification number (fraudulently acquired under the name Isaac Mupeta, born 9 May 1993 in Lusaka, Zambia, registration number 102523/29/1))”

    The update files – PDF, XML

    The consolidated program list

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  • August 31, 2026: SECO updates its Taliban sanctions lists

    The FINMA Notice:

    Updated sanctions notice: Taliban

    The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has published an amendment to the list of sanctioned natural persons, companies and organizations under the Ordinance of 21 March 2025 on measures against persons and organizations associated with the Taliban (SR 946.231.07).

    By decision of 27 August 2026, the competent UN Sanctions Committee amended the list of persons, companies and organizations sanctioned in this context. The amendment is directly applicable in Switzerland. SECO has therefore updated SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), the sanctions database that is authoritative for Switzerland, on 28 August 2026, and has published the update on its website.

    Financial intermediaries are required, in accordance with the provisions of the Ordinance, to implement the prohibitions, freeze the assets of the sanctioned persons, and report the affected business relationships to SECO. Reporting to SECO does not relieve a financial intermediary of the obligation to carry out additional clarifications pursuant to Art. 6 AMLA in the event of suspicion and, if such suspicion cannot be dispelled, to file a report without delay with the Money Laundering Reporting Office pursuant to Art. 9 AMLA.

    The update:

    Ordinance on measures against certain persons and groups associated with the Taliban – Art. 3 para. 1 and 2 (Financial sanctions) and Art. 4 (Entry and transit ban). Origin: UN

    Amended – Individuals

    SSID: 550-78889
    Foreign identifier: TAi.027
    Name: Abdul Salam Hanafi Ali Mardan Qul
    Title: a) Mullah b) Maulavi
    DOB: a) 1968 (approximately) b) 1 Jan 1969
    POB: a) Darzab District, Faryab Province, Afghanistan b) Qush Tepa District, Jawzjan Province, Afghanistan
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Abdussalam Hanifi b) Hanafi Saheb c) Abdul Salam Hanafi
    Address: Kabul, Afghanistan
    Nationality: Afghanistan
    Identification document: a) Passport No. D00009723, Afghanistan b) Passport No. D0010098, Afghanistan, Date of issue: 4 Apr 2023, Place of issue: Kabul, Afghanistan, Expiry date: 4 Apr 2028 (Name in Latin script, Abdul Salam Hanafi, name in original script: عبدالسلام حنفي) c) Passport No. P03078281, Afghanistan, Date of issue: 9 Feb 2020, Place of issue: Dubai, Expiry date: 9 Feb 2030
    Justification: Deputy Minister of Education under the Taliban regime (1996-2001).
    Other information: Taliban member responsible for Jawzjan Province in Northern Afghanistan until 2008. Involved in drug trafficking. Height 178 cm. Photo available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 10 Mar 2026, 28 Apr 2026, 27 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Identification document: Added clause c): “Passport No. P03078281, Afghanistan, Date of issue: 9 Feb 2020, Place of issue: Dubai, Expiry date: 9 Feb 2030”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 1 Jun. 2010.”

    The update files – PDF, XML

    The consolidated program list

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  • August 21, 2026: Swiss adoption of 20th EU Russian sanctions package measures

    FINMA Notice:

    Sanctions: Russia

    On 19 August 2026, the Federal Council decided to associate, in line with established practice, with the additional measures of the 20th European Union package of sanctions against Russia, which will enter into force on August 20, 2026.

    A total of 115 people and entities had been added to Switzerland’s sanctions list as of May 22, 2026. The list of Swiss sanctions in connection with Russia’s war against Ukraine currently includes about 2790 individuals, companies and entities.

    In the financial sector, the Federal Council now prohibits the use of Russian platforms for the exchange or transfer of cryptoassets. This measure aims to prevent Russia from using alternative payment methods to circumvent sanctions. In the same vein, support for the development of certain Russian cryptoassets such as the digital ruble is also prohibited.

    Financial intermediaries are required, according to the provisions of the ordinance, to implement the prohibitions, to freeze the patrimonial values of sanctioned persons and to announce the business relations concerned to SECO. The announcement made to the SECO does not exempt financial intermediaries from making, in case of suspicion, additional clarifications within the meaning of art. 6 LBA and, if they are unable to dismiss them, immediately make a communication within the meaning of Article 9 LBA to the Office of Communication on Money Laundering.

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  • August 20, 2026: SECO updates its ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida sanctions lists

    The FINMA Notice:

    Updated sanctions notice: ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida

    The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has published an amendment to the list of sanctioned natural persons, companies and organizations under the Ordinance of 21 March 2025 on measures against persons and organizations associated with the organizations ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida (SR 946.231.08).

    By decision of 18 August 2026, the competent UN Sanctions Committee amended the list of persons, companies and organizations sanctioned in this context. The amendment is directly applicable in Switzerland. SECO has therefore updated SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), the sanctions database that is authoritative for Switzerland, on 19 August 2026, and has published the update on its website.

    Financial intermediaries are required, in accordance with the provisions of the Ordinance, to implement the prohibitions, freeze the assets of the sanctioned persons, and report the affected business relationships to SECO. Reporting to SECO does not relieve a financial intermediary of the obligation to carry out additional clarifications pursuant to Art. 6 AMLA in the event of suspicion and, if such suspicion cannot be dispelled, to file a report without delay with the Money Laundering Reporting Office pursuant to Art. 9 AMLA.

    The update:

    Ordinance on measures against certain persons, groups, undertakings and organizations associated with the organizations ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida – Art. 3 para. 1 and 2 (Financial sanctions) and Art. 4 (Entry and transit ban). Origin: UN

    Amended – Individuals

    SSID: 500-81062
    Foreign identifier: QDi.087
    Name: Nurjaman Riduan Isamuddin
    DOB: a) 4 Apr 1964 b) 1966
    POB: a) Cianjur, West Java, Indonesia b) Sukamanah, West Java, Indonesia
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Hambali b) Nurjaman c) Isomuddin Nurjaman Riduan d) Hambali Bin Ending e) Encep Nurjaman (birth name) f) Hambali Ending Hambali g) Isamuddin Riduan h) Isamudin Ridwan
    Nationality: a) Indonesia b) Malaysia
    Other information: Senior leader of Jemaah Islamiyah (QDe.092). Brother of Gun Gun Rusman Gunawan (QDi.218). In custody of the United States of America, as of July 2007. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – DOB: Added clause b): “1966”
    – POB: Added clause b): “Sukamanah, West Java, Indonesia”
    – Nationality: Added clause b): “Malaysia”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 13 Apr. 2010. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 4 Dec. 2019. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2610 (2021) was concluded on 8 November 2022.”

    SSID: 500-81645
    Foreign identifier: QDi.114
    Name: Salim Y Salamuddin Julkipli
    DOB: 20 Jun 1967
    POB: Tulay, Jolo Sulu, Philippines
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Kipli Sali b) Julkipli Salim
    Nationality: Philippines
    Other information: A member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (QDe.001). In detention in the Philippines as at May 2011. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Added: “A member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (QDe.001).”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 25 May 2010. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 4 Dec. 2019. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2610 (2021) was concluded on 8 November 2022.”

    SSID: 500-82433
    Foreign identifier: QDi.204
    Name: Isnilon Totoni Hapilon
    DOB: a) 18 Mar 1966 b) 10 Mar 1967
    POB: Bulanza, Lantawan, Basilan, Philippines
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Isnilon Hapilun b) Isnilun Hapilun c) Tuan Isnilon
    Low quality a.k.a.: a) Abu Musab b) Salahudin
    Address: a) Basilan, Philippines (previous location until 2016) b) Lanao del Sur, Philippines (location since 2016)
    Nationality: Philippines
    Other information: Senior leader of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) (QDe.001). Leader of local affiliates of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (AQI) (QDe.115), in the southern Philippines as of May 2017. Killed in Marawi City, Philippines on 15 October 2017. Physical description: eye colour: brown; hair colour: brown; height: 5 feet 6 inches – 168 cm; weight: 120 pounds – 54 kg; build: slim; complexion: light-skinned; has facial birthmarks. Wanted by the Philippines authorities for terrorist offences and by authorities of the United States of America for involvement in terrorist acts. Photos included in INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice (web link available).
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 6 Oct 2025, 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Changed from: “Reportedly deceased” to: “Killed in Marawi City, Philippines on 15 October 2017.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 8 Jun. 2010.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 4 Dec. 2019.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2610 (2021) was concluded on 8 November 2022.”

    SSID: 500-82875
    Foreign identifier: QDi.249
    Name: Yahia Djouadi
    DOB: 1 Jan 1967
    POB: M’Hamid, Wilaya (province) of Sidi Bel Abbes, Algeria
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Yahia Abou Ammar b) Abou Ala
    Nationality: Algeria
    Other information: Located in Northern Mali as of Jun. 2008. Reportedly killed on 25 February 2022 in Timbuktu, Mali. Belonged to the leadership of the Organization of Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (listed under permanent reference number QDe.014). Mother’s name is Zohra Fares. Father’s name is Mohamed. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Changed from: “Reportedly deceased” to: “Located in Northern Mali as of Jun. 2008. Reportedly killed on 25 February 2022 in Timbuktu, Mali.”
    – Other information: Deleted a duplicate “Located in Northern Mali as of Jun. 2008.” clause from later in the field – this fact is now consolidated into the updated status above
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2610 (2021) was concluded on 8 November 2022.”

    SSID: 500-82914
    Foreign identifier: QDi.252
    Name: Ahmed Deghdegh
    DOB: 17 Jan 1967
    POB: Anser, Wilaya (province) of Jijel, Algeria
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Abd El Illah b) Abdellillah dit Abdellah Ahmed dit Said c) Abd El Ilah d) Abou Abdellah Ahmed e) Said Dit Merrikh
    Address: Algeria
    Nationality: Algeria
    Other information: Belongs to the leadership and is the finance chief of the Organization of Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (QDe.014). Mother’s name is Zakia Chebira. Father’s name is Lakhdar. Reportedly died in Algeria in 2020. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Good quality a.k.a.: Added clause c): “Abd El Ilah”
    – Good quality a.k.a.: Added clause d): “Abou Abdellah Ahmed”
    – Good quality a.k.a.: Added clause e): “Said Dit Merrikh”
    – Other information: Changed from: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.” to: “Reportedly died in Algeria in 2020.”

    SSID: 500-83259
    Foreign identifier: QDi.291
    Name: Ibrahim Hassan Tali Al-Asiri
    DOB: a) 19 Apr 1982 b) 18 Apr 1982
    POB: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Ibrahim Hassan Tali Asiri b) Ibrahim Hasan Talea Aseeri c) Ibrahim Hassan al-Asiri d) Ibrahim Hasan Tali Asiri e) Ibrahim Hassan Tali Assiri f) Ibrahim Hasan Tali’A ‘Asiri g) Ibrahim Hasan Tali al-‘Asiri h) Ibrahim al-‘Asiri i) Ibrahim Hassan Al Asiri
    Low quality a.k.a.: a) Abu Saleh b) Abosslah c) Abu-Salaah
    Address: Yemen
    Nationality: Saudi Arabia
    Identification document: a) Passport No. F654645, Saudi Arabia, Date of issue: 30 Apr 2005, Expiry date: 7 Mar 2010 (Issue date in Hijri Calendar 24/06/1426. Expiry date in Hijri Calendar 21/03/1431.) b) ID card No. 1028745097, Saudi Arabia
    Other information: a) Operative and principal bomb maker of Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) (QDe.129). Reportedly deceased in 2017. Also associated with Nasir ‘abd-al-Karim ‘Abdullah Al-Wahishi (deceased), Qasim Yahya Mahdi al-Rimi (QDi.282), and Anwar Nasser Abdulla Al-Aulaqi (QDi.283) (deceased). INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available. b) DOB: 24/06/1402 (Hijri Calendar)
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 6 Oct 2025, 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Changed from: “Believed to be hiding in Yemen as at Mar. 2011. Wanted by Saudi Arabia. Reportedly deceased.” to: “Reportedly deceased in 2017.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2610 (2021) was concluded on 8 November 2022.”
    – Other information: Added clause b): “DOB: 24/06/1402 (Hijri Calendar)”

    SSID: 500-83372
    Foreign identifier: QDi.294
    Name: Umar Patek
    DOB: 20 Jul 1966
    POB: Central Java, Indonesia
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Omar Patek b) Mike Arsalan c) Hisyam Bin Zein d) Anis Alawi Jafar
    Low quality a.k.a.: a) Pa’tek b) Pak Taek c) Umar Kecil d) Al Abu Syekh Al Zacky e) Umangis Mike
    Address: Indonesia
    Nationality: Indonesia
    Other information: Senior member of Jemaah Islamiyah (QDe.092) involved in planning and funding multiple terrorist attacks in the Philippines and Indonesia. Provided training to Abu Sayyaf Group (QDe.001). Convicted for his role in the 2002 Bali bombings and sentenced to 20 years in prison in Jun. 2012. Released on parole in 2022 and as at late 2025, he operated a business in Surabaya, Indonesia. Remains in custody in Indonesia as at May 2015. Photos included in INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Added: “Released on parole in 2022 and as at late 2025, he operated a business in Surabaya, Indonesia.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”
    – Other information: Deleted trailing “web link available.” after “…Special Notice”

    SSID: 500-83389
    Foreign identifier: QDi.295
    Name: Muhammad Jibril Abdul Rahman
    DOB: a) 28 May 1984 b) 3 Dec 1979
    POB: East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Mohammad Jibril Abdurrahman b) Muhammad Jibriel Abdul Rahman c) Mohammad Jibriel Abdurrahman d) Muhamad Ricky Ardhan e) Muhammad Ricky Ardhan bin Muhammad Iqbal f) Muhammad Ricky Ardhan bin Abu Jibril
    Low quality a.k.a.: a) Muhammad Yunus b) Heris Syah
    Address: a) Jalan M. Saidi RT 010 RW 001 Pesanggrahan, South Petukangan, South Jakarta, Indonesia b) Jalan Nakula of Witana Harja Complex Block C, Pamulang, Banten, Indonesia
    Nationality: Indonesia
    Identification document: a) ID card No. 3219222002.2181558, Indonesia b) ID card No. 2181558, Indonesia
    Other identity: Muhamad Ricky Ardhan
      DOB: 8 Aug 1980
      Identification document: Passport No. S335026, Indonesia (forged Indonesian passport)
    Other information: a) Senior member of Jemaah Islamiyah (QDe.092) directly involved in obtaining funding for terrorist attacks. Sentenced in Indonesia to five years in prison on 29 Jun. 2010. Father’s name is Mohamad Iqbal Abdurrahman (QDi.086). INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available. b) DOB: 3 Mar. 1979 (from false passport) c) DOB: 8 Aug. 1980 (information derived from forged Indonesia passport No.S335026)
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 6 Oct 2025, 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other identity – Identification document: Added: “Passport No. S335026, Indonesia (forged Indonesian passport)” (field was previously blank)
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 24 November 2020. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”
    – Other information: Added clause c): “DOB: 8 Aug. 1980 (information derived from forged Indonesia passport No.S335026)”

    SSID: 500-83488
    Foreign identifier: QDi.300
    Name: Monir Chouka
    DOB: 30 Jul 1981
    POB: Bonn, Germany
    Good quality a.k.a.: Abu Hamza
    Low quality a.k.a.: Abu Adam
    Address: a) Ungartenstrasse 6, Bonn, 53229, Germany (previous) b) Syrian Arab Republic (as at 2023)
    Nationality: a) Germany b) Morocco
    Identification document: a) Passport No. 5208323009, Germany, Date of issue: 2 Feb 2007, Place of issue: Bonn, Expiry date: 1 Feb 2012 b) ID card No. 5209530116, Germany, Date of issue: 21 Jun 2006, Place of issue: Bonn, Expiry date: 20 Jun 2011
    Other information: Associated with Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (QDe.010). Associated with Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (QDe.115), between October 2015 and August 2016. Brother of Yassin Chouka (QDi.301). Arrest warrant issued by the investigating judge of the German Federal Court of Justice on 5 Oct. 2010. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Good quality a.k.a.: Added: “Abu Hamza” (field was previously blank)
    – Address: Added clause b): “Syrian Arab Republic (as at 2023)”
    – Other information: Added: “Associated with Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (QDe.115), between October 2015 and August 2016.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    SSID: 500-83531
    Foreign identifier: QDi.304
    Name: Mochammad Achwan
    DOB: a) 4 May 1948 b) 4 May 1946
    POB: Tulungagung, Indonesia
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Muhammad Achwan b) Muhammad Akhwan c) Mochtar Achwan d) Mochtar Akhwan e) Mochtar Akwan
    Address: Jalan Ir. H. Juanda 8/10, RT/RW 002/001, Jodipan, Blimbing, Malang, 65127, Indonesia
    Nationality: Indonesia
    Identification document: a) ID card No. 3573010405480001, Indonesia b) ID card No. 353010405480001, Indonesia c) Passport No. C3967156, Indonesia
    Other information: Acting emir of Jemmah Anshorut Tauhid (JAT) (QDe.133). Associated with Abu Bakar Ba’asyir (QDi.217), Abdul Rahim Ba’aysir (QDi.293) and Jemaah Islamiyah (QDe.092). INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 6 Oct 2025, 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Identification document: Added clause c): “Passport No. C3967156, Indonesia”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    SSID: 500-84598
    Foreign identifier: QDi.375
    Name: Boubaker Ben Habib Ben al-Hakim
    DOB: 1 Aug 1983
    POB: Paris, France
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Boubakeur el-Hakim b) Boubaker el Hakim
    Low quality a.k.a.: a) Abou al Moukatel b) Abou Mouqatel c) Abu-Muqatil al-Tunisi d) El Hakim Boubakeur
    Address: Syrian Arab Republic (as at Sep 2015)
    Nationality: a) France b) Tunisia
    Other information: French-Tunisian foreign terrorist fighter for Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (QDe.115). Reportedly killed in Raqqa, Syria on 26 November 2016. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Changed from: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.” to: “Reportedly killed in Raqqa, Syria on 26 November 2016.”

    SSID: 500-84613
    Foreign identifier: QDi.376
    Name: Peter Cherif
    DOB: 26 Aug 1982
    POB: Paris, 20th district, France
    Address: Al-Mukalla, Hadramawt province, Yemen
    Nationality: France
    Other information: Member of Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) (QDe.129). Convicted in absentia to five years in prison in France in 2012. Sentenced to life imprisonment by a French court on 3 October 2024. Wanted by French authorities as of 2015. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Added: “Sentenced to life imprisonment by a French court on 3 October 2024.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    SSID: 500-84765
    Foreign identifier: QDi.389
    Name: Abu Ubaydah Yusuf al-Anabi
    DOB: 7 Feb 1969
    POB: Annaba, Algeria
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Abou Obeida Youssef Al-Annabi b) Abu-Ubaydah Yusuf Al-lnabi
    Low quality a.k.a.: a) Mebrak Yazid b) Youcef Abu Obeida c) Mibrak Yazid d) Yousif Abu Obayda Yazid e) Yazid Mebrak f) Yazid Mabrak g) Yusuf Abu Ubaydah h) Abou Youcef
    Address: Algeria
    Nationality: Algeria
    Other information: A leader of the Organization of Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) (QDe.014). Father’s name is Omar Mebrak. Mother’s name is Zohra Mebrak. Photo available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Good quality a.k.a.: Changed clause a) spelling from: “Abou ObeJda Youssef AI-Annabi” to: “Abou Obeida Youssef Al-Annabi”
    – Other information: Added: “Father’s name is Omar Mebrak. Mother’s name is Zohra Mebrak.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    Amended – Entities

    SSID: 500-87480
    Foreign identifier: QDe.015
    Name: Wafa Humanitarian Organization
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Al Wafa b) Al Wafa Organization c) Wafa Al-Igatha Al-Islamia
    Address: b) Kuwait (at time of listing) c) United Arab Emirates (at time of listing) d) Afghanistan (at time of listing)
    Other information: Headquarters was in Kandahar, Afghanistan as at 2001. Wafa was a component of Al-Qaida (QDe.004) in 2001. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Address: Deleted clause a): “Jordan House No. 125, Street 54, Phase II Hayatabad, Peshawar, Pakistan (at time of listing)”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 21 Jun. 2010. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 4 Dec. 2019. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2610 (2021) was concluded on 8 November 2022.”

    SSID: 500-87511
    Foreign identifier: QDe.068
    Name: Ummah Tameer e-Nau (UTN)
    Address: a) Street 13, Wazir Akbar Khan, Kabul, Afghanistan
    Other information: Its directors included Mahmood Sultan Bashir-Ud-Din (QDi.055). Banned in Pakistan. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 13 Aug 2026, 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Address: Deleted clause b): “Pakistan”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 21 Jun. 2010. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    SSID: 500-87517
    Foreign identifier: QDe.069
    Name: Afghan Support Committee (ASC)
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Lajnat ul Masa Eidatul Afghania b) Jamiat Ayat-ur-Rhas al Islamiac c) Jamiat Ihya ul Turath al Islamia d) Ahya ul Turas
    Address: b) Cheprahar Hadda, Mia Omar Sabaqah School, Jalabad, Afghanistan
    Other information: Associated with the Revival of Islamic Heritage Society (QDe.070). Abu Bakr al-Jaziri (QDi.058) served as finance chief of ASC. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Address: Deleted clause a): “Headquarters – G.T. Road (probably Grand Trunk Road), near Pushtoon Garhi Pabbi, Peshawar, Pakistan”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 8 Jun. 2010. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    SSID: 500-87593
    Foreign identifier: QDe.096
    Name: Lashkar i Jhangvi (LJ)
    Other information: Banned in Pakistan as at 2010. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Changed from: “Based primarily in Pakistan’s Punjab region and in the city of Karachi. Active in Pakistan although banned as at 2010.” to: “Banned in Pakistan as at 2010.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2161 (2014) was concluded on 23 Dec. 2016. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    SSID: 500-87638
    Foreign identifier: QDe.104
    Name: Al-Haramain Foundation (Pakistan)
    Address: House #279, Nazimuddin Road, F-10/1, Islamabad, Pakistan (at time of listing)
    Other information: As at late 2025, it was not active and had no structures in Pakistan. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Changed from: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 19 Oct. 2009. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 24 November 2020. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2610 (2021) was concluded on 8 November 2022.” to: “As at late 2025, it was not active and had no structures in Pakistan.”

    SSID: 500-87784
    Foreign identifier: QDe.119
    Name: Islamic Jihad Group
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Jama’at al-Jihad b) Libyan Society c) Kazakh Jama’at d) Jamaat Mojahedin e) Jamiyat f) Jamiat al-Jihad al-Islami g) Dzhamaat Modzhakhedov h) Islamic Jihad Group of Uzbekistan i) al-Djihad al-Islami j) Zamaat Modzhakhedov Tsentralnoy Asii k) Islamic Jihad Union
    Other information: Founded and led by Najmiddin Kamolitdinovich Jalolov (reportedly deceased) and Suhayl Fatilloevich Buranov (reportedly deceased). Its activities are funded and coordinated by Al-Qaida. Associated with the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (QDe.010) and Emarat Kavkaz (QDe.131). Active in the Afghanistan/Pakistan border area, Central Asia, South Asia region and some European States. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Changed from: “(deceased)” to: “(reportedly deceased)” for both Najmiddin Kamolitdinovich Jalolov and Suhayl Fatilloevich Buranov
    – Other information: Added: “Its activities are funded and coordinated by Al-Qaida.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 20 May 2010. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 24 November 2020.”

    SSID: 500-87821
    Foreign identifier: QDe.129
    Name: Al-Qaida In The Arabian Peninsula (AQAP)
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Al-Qaida of Jihad Organization in the Arabian Peninsula b) Tanzim Qa’idat al-Jihad fi Jazirat al-Arab c) Al-Qaida Organization in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) d) Al-Qaida in the South Arabian Peninsula e) Ansar al-Ahari’a (AAS)
    F.k.a.: Al-Qaida in Yemen (AQY)
    Other information: AQAP is a regional affiliate of Al-Qaida (QDe.004) and an armed group operating primarily in Arabian Peninsula. Location: Yemen. Alternative location: Saudi Arabia (2004–2006). Formed in Jan. 2009 when Al-Qaida in Yemen combined with Saudi Arabian Al-Qaida operatives. Leader of AQAP is Sa’ad bin Atef al-Awlaki. Ansar al-Shari’a was formed in early 2011 by AQAP and has taken responsibility for multiple attacks in Yemen against both government and civilian targets. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 6 Oct 2025, 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Changed from: “Leader of AQAP is Qasim Mohamed Mahdi Al-Rimi (QDi.282).” to: “Leader of AQAP is Sa’ad bin Atef al-Awlaki.”
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    SSID: 500-88059
    Foreign identifier: QDe.134
    Name: Mouvement pour l’Unification et le Jihad en Afrique de l’Ouest (MUJAO)
    Address: a) Mali b) Algeria
    Other information: Associated with The Organization of Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb, (QDe.014), Al Mourabitoun (QDe.141), and Mokhtar Belmokhtar (QDi.136). Active in the Sahel/Sahara region. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 6 Oct 2025, 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Other information: Added: “Al Mourabitoun (QDe.141)” as an additional associated group
    – Other information: Deleted: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 15 November 2021.”

    The update files – PDF, XML

    The consolidated program list

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  • This Old Blog: Recent changes to OFSI and SECO updates

    Hi, all!

    As you know, I’ve had struggles processing OFSI and SECO updates to existing sanctions designations because of the differences between PDF and Markdown (MD) formats and capabilities. I did realize two things recently, however. Firstly, if I really wanted to reproduce the formatting, I actually could – Claude can also produce HTML as well as Markdown. Secondly, I needed Claude to recognize the formatting and act on its meaning (e.g. added text, deleted text).

    Long story short – while it took a while, posts for OFSI and SECO updates now largely mirror how OFAC updates are displayed – one line per field, with changed records pointing out what was deleted and what was added. Easier for you (and me) to understand, and easier to read, to be frank.

    I am still retaining the tables from the OFSI emails with the links to the FCDO designation pages, the link to the FINMA Notice, and the links to the various files supplied by SECO.

    Actually, I just realized that I didn’t retain the link to the OFSI sanctions notices… I’ll get that working by the time the next update hits.

    Hope this makes the site more useful to you.

    Mr. Sanctions

    P.S. yes, my next great project is figuring out a decent way to track EU changes – EUR-LEX is not particularly user-friendly.

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  • AI Corner: You’re not the only one who’s confused

    So, this morning I asked Claude to process this AM’s SECO update (incorporating the UNSC’s August 14th updates), and it told me that it looked awfully like yesterday’s SECO update – and would I like to update that post, or create a new one.

    Yes, on both days, 3 persons and 1 entity were updated by the UNSC. And SECO created an update for each. Because of the timing of the 2 updates, OFSI actually issued a single update on Monday comprising of both sets of UN updates. Even there, OFSI said there were 6 updates to individuals and 2 to entities… which confused Claude, even if it was technically true, from a. regulatory standpoint.

    It’s a good reminder of the limitations, especially over time, of AI tools’ ability to understand context. Would Claude have not been confused had I used a more powerful model like Opus or Fable instead of Sonnet? Perhaps, but at what cost – those models chew up your usage a lot faster, which is silly for normal day-to-day work.

    Thought this was an interesting case to share.

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  • August 19, 2026: SECO updates its ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida sanctions lists

    The FINMA Notice:

    Updated sanctions notice: ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida

    The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has published an amendment to the list of sanctioned natural persons, companies and organizations under the Ordinance of 21 March 2025 on measures against persons and organizations associated with the organizations ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida (SR 946.231.08).

    By decision of 14 August 2026, the competent UN Sanctions Committee amended the list of persons, companies and organizations sanctioned in this context. The amendment is directly applicable in Switzerland. SECO has therefore updated SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), the sanctions database that is authoritative for Switzerland, on 17 August 2026, and has published the update on its website.

    The update:

    Ordinance on measures against certain persons, groups, undertakings and organizations associated with the organizations ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida – Art. 3 para. 1 and 2 (Financial sanctions) and Art. 4 (Entry and transit ban). Origin: UN

    Amended – Individuals

    SSID: 500-80463
    Foreign identifier: QDi.002
    Name: Amin Muhammad Ul Haq Saam Khan
    DOB: a) 1960 b) 30 Apr 1963
    POB: Qilagho village, Khogyani District, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Al-Haq Amin b) Amin Muhammad
    Low quality a.k.a.: a) Dr. Amin b) Ul-Haq Dr. Amin
    Address: Kabul, Afghanistan (as of June 2026)
    Nationality: Afghanistan
    Other information: Security coordinator for Usama bin Laden (deceased). Repatriated to Afghanistan in February 2006. He was in Afghanistan as of August 2021. Arrested in Pakistan 2024 and deported to Afghanistan in 2025. Father’s name: Abdul Rahman. Photo and fingerprints available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 14 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – DOB: Added clause b): “30 Apr 1963”
    – POB: Changed from: “Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan” to: “Qilagho village, Khogyani District, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan”
    – Address: Added: “Kabul, Afghanistan (as of June 2026)” (field was previously blank)
    – Other information: Changed from: “Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 1822 (2008) was concluded on 15 Jun. 2010. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2368 (2017) was concluded on 4 Dec. 2019. Review pursuant to Security Council resolution 2610 (2021) was concluded on 8 November 2022.” to: “Arrested in Pakistan 2024 and deported to Afghanistan in 2025. Father’s name: Abdul Rahman. Photo and fingerprints available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice.”

    SSID: 500-94433
    Foreign identifier: QDi.436
    Name: Abubakar Swalleh
    Sex: M
    DOB: a) 13 Jan 1992 b) 16 Mar 1993
    POB: Mengo, Uganda
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) Abubaker Swaleh b) Tom Kiyurige
    Low quality a.k.a.: Isaac Mupeta
    Address: Luzira Prison, Luzira, Kampala, Uganda
    Nationality: Uganda
    Identification document: a) Passport No. A00195974, Uganda b) Passport No. A00195974, Uganda, Expiry date: 16 Dec 2029 c) Other No. CM920231090NZA, Uganda (National identification number)
    Other information: Abubakar Swalleh provides financial, material, or technological support for, or financial or other services to, or in support of, ISIL (listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (QDe.115)). He acted, since 2018, as an ISIL facilitator who provides financial and logistic support including recruitment for ISIL in East and Southern Africa. Phone number: +963936016952. Photo available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 16 Jun 2025, amended on 14 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – DOB: Added clause b): “16 Mar 1993”
    – Low quality a.k.a.: Added: “Isaac Mupeta” (field was previously blank)
    – Identification document: Added clause b): “Passport No. A00195974, Uganda, Expiry date: 16 Dec 2029”
    – Other information: Added: “Photo available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice.”

    SSID: 500-103769
    Foreign identifier: QDi.439
    Name: Hamida Nabaggala
    DOB: 23 Feb 1989
    POB: Uganda
    Low quality a.k.a.: a) Nabaggala b) Nabaggaka c) Hamida d) Hamidah
    Address: Congo DR
    Nationality: Uganda
    Identification document: Other No. CF89095102DDAE, Uganda, Expiry date: 27 Mar 2025 (National identification no)
    Other information: a) Works as a mediator in financing channels for ISIL in Central Africa, has been charged with financing a bombing that occurred in the Ugandan capital, Kampala, in 2021, attempted to coerce her three children in Uganda to send them to ISIL camps in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Gender: Female. Photo available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 30 Mar 2026, amended on 8 Jul 2026, 14 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Identification document: Added: “Other No. CF89095102DDAE, Uganda, Expiry date: 27 Mar 2025 (National identification no)” (field was previously blank)
    – Other information: Added: “Photo available for inclusion in the INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice.”
    – Other information: Deleted clause b): “National identification no: na CF89095102DDAE (expiry on 27 March 2025)” – this data moved into the new Identification document field above

    Amended – Entities

    SSID: 500-88313
    Foreign identifier: QDe.161
    Name: Islamic State In Iraq And The Levant – Khorasan (ISIL-K)
    Good quality a.k.a.: a) ISIL Khorasan b) Islamic State’s Khorasan Province c) ISIS Wilayat Khorasan d) ISIL’s South Asia Branch e) South Asian chapter of ISIL f) The Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham—Khorasan Province g) The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria—Khorasan h) Islamic State of Iraq and Levant in Khorasan Province i) Islamic State Khurasan j) ISIS-K k) ISISK l) IS-Khorasan m) Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP)
    Other information: Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant – Khorasan (ISIL – K) was formed on January 10, 2015 by a former Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) (QDe.132) commander and was established by former Taliban faction commanders who swore an oath of allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq (QDe.115)). ISIL – K has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. INTERPOL-UN Security Council Special Notice web link available.
    Modifications: Listed on 15 May 2025, amended on 14 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Good quality a.k.a.: Added clause m): “Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP)”

    The update files – PDF, XML

    The consolidated program list

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  • August 18, 2026: SECO updates its Iran sanctions listings

    The FINMA Notice:

    Updated Sanctions Notice: Islamic Republic of Iran

    The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) has published an amendment to Annexes 12, 13, and 14 of the Ordinance of December 12, 2025 on measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran (SR 946.231.143.6).

    On August 17, 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) amended the list of persons, companies, and organizations sanctioned in this context. The WBF has updated SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), the sanctions database that is authoritative for Switzerland, and published the update on its website. The amendment takes effect on August 18, 2026 at 11:00 p.m.

    Financial intermediaries are required, in accordance with the provisions of the Ordinance, to implement the prohibitions, freeze the assets of the sanctioned persons, and report the affected business relationships to SECO. Reporting to SECO does not relieve a financial intermediary of the obligation to carry out additional clarifications under Art. 6 AMLA if there are grounds for suspicion and, if these cannot be resolved, to immediately file a report with the Money Laundering Reporting Office under Art. 9 AMLA.

    The update:

    Annex 12 – Art. 16 (Financial sanctions), Art. 26 (Entry and transit ban), Art. 27 (Prohibition on satisfying certain claims). Origin: EU / UN

    Listed – Individuals
    SSID: 80-113067 Name: Ansari Ali
    Sex: M DOB: 26 Dec 1968 Good quality a.k.a.: Ali Akbar Ansari Nationality: Iran
    Justification: a) Ali Ansari is an Iranian businessman and former owner of Bank Ayandeh and of the Iran Mall. b) Through a network of companies, Ali Ansari uses foreign banking channels to transfer funds abroad. Those funds originate in part from Iranian oil sales. The Iranian oil sector constitutes a significant source of funding for Iran’s military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). c) In addition, through a network of companies, Ali Ansari acquires substantial assets, including real estate in the EU and in the UK, on behalf of persons connected to the Iranian leadership, including the Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. d) Therefore, Ali Ansari provides support to the Government of Iran.
    Other information: Function: Businessperson
    Modifications: Listed on 18 Aug 2026

    Listed – Entities
    SSID: 80-113081 Name: MAPNA Group
    Address: No. 231, Mirdamad Blvd., Tehran, 1918953651, Iran
    Justification: a) The MAPNA Group is a key player in the Iranian energy, oil and gas sector. It is owned or controlled by the EU-listed Ministry of Energy of Iran (MOE). b) In cooperation with State actors and State-owned entities, such as the Ministry of Petroleum and the National Iranian Oil Company, the MAPNA Group is involved in the exploration of gas and oil fields and therefore contributes to Iran’s oil revenues. A significant part of those revenues is allocated to the armed forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and to the Organisation of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND). c) Therefore, the MAPNA Group provides support to the Government of Iran. In addition, the MAPNA Group is providing support for Iran’s proliferation-sensitive nuclear activities.
    Other information: a) Registration number: 99134 b) National ID: 10101431259 c) Economic code: 411111477788 d) Website: http://www.mapnagroup.com
    Modifications: Listed on 18 Aug 2026

    Amended – Entities
    SSID: 80-9418 Foreign identifier: 75. Name: Research Centre for Explosion and Impact
    Good quality a.k.a.: METFAZ Address: 44, 180th Street West, Tehran, 16539-75751
    Justification: a) The Research Centre for Explosion and Impact (METFAZ) is a subsidiary of the EU-listed Organisation of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND), part of Ministry of Defense for Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL). The activities of METFAZ focus on detonation technology, thereby supporting the development of nuclear warheads. b) Therefore, METFAZ is engaged in and providing support for Iran’s proliferation-sensitive nuclear activities.
    Modifications: Amended on 19 Oct 2023, 18 Aug 2026

    List of Changes:
    – Justification a): Changed from: “Subordinate to the designated Malek Ashtar University, it oversees activity linked to Possible Military Dimensions of Iran’s nuclear programme upon which Iran is not cooperating with the IAEA.” to: “The Research Centre for Explosion and Impact (METFAZ) is a subsidiary of the EU-listed Organisation of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND), part of Ministry of Defense for Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL). The activities of METFAZ focus on detonation technology, thereby supporting the development of nuclear warheads.”
    – Justification: Added clause b): “Therefore, METFAZ is engaged in and providing support for Iran’s proliferation-sensitive nuclear activities.”
    – Modifications: Added “18 Aug 2026” to the amendment history (previously “Amended on 19 Oct 2023”)

    De-listed – Individuals
    SSID: 80-11215 Name: Pakpur Mohammad – Commander of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Ground Forces (Rank: Brigadier-General). Modifications: Amended on 20 Aug 2025, de-listed on 18 Aug 2026
    SSID: 80-11319 Name: Zadeh Amir Ali Haji (Good quality a.k.a.: Hajizadeh Amir Ali) – IRGC Brigadier-General; IRGC Aerospace Force Commander. Modifications: Amended on 20 Jun 2018, de-listed on 18 Aug 2026

    Annex 14 – Art. 16 (Financial sanctions), Art. 27 (Prohibition on satisfying certain claims). Origin: EU / UN

    Listed – Individuals
    SSID: 80-113034 Name: Salehi Nima
    Sex: M DOB: 24 Nov 1984 Good quality a.k.a.: a) Salehi Alireza b) Q7x Nationality: Iran
    Justification: a) Nima Salehi is an Iranian hacker and computer engineer. b) He is founder of and a leading figure within the “Ashiyane” cyber group, linked to the Iranian regime. “Ashiyane” cooperates closely with the EU-listed Cyber Police (FATA) and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and is responsible for intensive cyber-attacks on both domestic opponents and reformists and foreign institutions. “Ashiyane” has assisted the regime’s crackdown on the opposition, which has involved numerous serious human rights violations. c) In his capacity as founder of and leading figure within “Ashiyane”, Nima Salehi is therefore responsible for serious human rights violations in Iran.
    Other information: Function: Hacker and computer engineer, co-founder and deputy leader of “Ashiyane”
    Modifications: Listed on 18 Aug 2026

    Annex 13 – Art. 16 (Financial sanctions), Art. 26 (Entry and transit ban), Art. 27 (Prohibition on satisfying certain claims). Origin: EU / UN

    De-listed – Individuals
    SSID: 80-68959 Name: Khanian Mohammad Shahab – Deputy CEO of Shakad Sanat Asmari (a.k.a. Chekad Sanat Faraz Asia), which develops and manufactures components for Shahed UAVs. Modifications: Listed on 21 Dec 2023, amended on 30 Apr 2024, de-listed on 18 Aug 2026
    SSID: 80-78192 Name: Rashid Gholam Ali (Good quality a.k.a.: Rashid Gholamali) – Commander of the EU-listed Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters (KCHG) since June 2016, involved in Iran’s UAV programme and in transferring UAVs to Russia. Modifications: Listed on 7 Nov 2024, de-listed on 18 Aug 2026
    SSID: 80-78394 Name: Shahriyari Behnam – Official of the IRGC Quds Force Unit 190, involved in transferring weapons to Iranian-aligned armed groups in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Modifications: Listed on 7 Nov 2024, de-listed on 18 Aug 2026
    SSID: 80-78408 Name: Shadmani Ali – Deputy coordinator of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters (KCHG), involved in transferring UAVs to Russia. Modifications: Listed on 7 Nov 2024, de-listed on 18 Aug 2026

    The update files – PDF, XML

    The consolidated program list

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  • August 17, 2026: SECO updates its ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida sanctions lists

    The FINMA Notice:

    Updated sanctions notice: ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida

    The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has published an amendment to the list of sanctioned natural persons, companies and organizations under the Ordinance of 21 March 2025 on measures against persons and organizations associated with the organizations ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Kaida (SR 946.231.08).

    By decision of 13 August 2026, the competent UN Sanctions Committee amended the list of persons, companies and organizations sanctioned in this context. The amendment is directly applicable in Switzerland. SECO has therefore updated SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), the sanctions database that is authoritative for Switzerland, on 14 August 2026, and has published the update on its website.

    The update:

    ISIL-Daesh-und-Al-Kaida_Delta_2026-08-17.pdfDownload

    The update files – PDF, XML

    The consolidated program list

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  • August 12, 2026: SECO updates its Ukraine/Russia sanctions, too

    The FINMA Notice:

    Updated sanctions notice: Ukraine

    The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) has published amendments to Annexes 2 and 8 of the Ordinance of 4 March 2022 on measures in connection with the situation in Ukraine (SR 946.231.176.72).

    On 10 August 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) amended Annexes 2 and 8 of the Ordinance, and the amendments will be published on its website today. The measures enter into force today at 23:00.

    Financial intermediaries are required, in accordance with the provisions of the Ordinance, to implement the prohibitions, freeze the assets of sanctioned persons, and report the affected business relationships to SECO. Reporting to SECO does not relieve a financial intermediary of the obligation to carry out additional clarifications under Art. 6 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) in the event of suspicion, and, if these suspicions cannot be dispelled, to immediately file a report without delay with the Money Laundering Reporting Office under Art. 9 AMLA.

    The update:

    Situation en Ukraine_Delta_2026-08-10.pdfDownload

    The update files – PDF, XML

    The consolidated program list

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