Prominent Palestinian British journalist shocked by US sanctions listing

Zahir Birawi, a prominent Palestinian British journalist and activist, has expressed deep shock by the recent decision of the US Treasury to include on its Sanctions List.

In a press statement issued today, 26 January, Mr Birawi said “I categorically reject this designation and believe it is based on inaccurate information and lacks a sound legal foundation. I would also like to state clearly that, prior to the issuance of this decision, I was not contacted by any competent US authority, directly or indirectly, for the purpose of inquiry, verification, or to provide clarifications or supporting documents. This deprived me of the opportunity to exercise my fundamental right to respond and to correct any incorrect information.”

The statement continued; “It is important to note that this designation does not constitute a judicial finding, was not issued by any competent court, and represents a unilateral executive measure taken under U.S. domestic law. It is not based on any United Nations resolution and does not create binding legal obligations outside the US legal framework. It should not be understood as a finding of criminal liability or wrongdoing under UK or international law.”

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Birawi said he is currently consulting with a specialised legal team to determine the appropriate legal steps to formally challenge this decision, request its review and reconsideration, and seek the removal of his name from the list in accordance with the procedures adopted by the relevant authorities.

Birawi had previously faced false allegations which were pursued through formal legal and compliance channels. Those allegations were ultimately dismissed, and his name was removed from international compliance databases (World Check) after it was established that incorrect information had been recorded about him. 

“I reiterate unequivocally that I have never knowingly or intentionally had any operational, financial, or organisational relationship with any entity designated on terrorism lists, nor have I provided material or financial support to any such organisation;” he said.

With regard to his previous involvement with the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad (PCPA), Birawi said he did participate in its founding conference and was elected to its General Secretariat during its first term (2017–2021). Since 2021, he has not held, nor currently hold, any administrative, organisational, or decision-making role within the Conference.

Birawi said he was confident that an objective and independent review of this matter will demonstrate that this designation is unjustified and that he looked forward to correcting this error to protect his legal rights and professional reputation.

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