Charity watchdog investigates woman over possible pro-Hamas news network funding
The Charity Commission said it had launched an inquiry into Aozma Sultana, who was sanctioned by the UK and US governments last month.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Charity Commission is investigating a sanctioned woman over the possible misuse of charity donations to help fund a news agency that promotes the Hamas terrorist group.
The regulator said it had launched an inquiry into Aozma Sultana amid “serious concerns” that public donations meant for humanitarian aid in Gaza were instead providing financial support for Gaza Now.
Funds were raised by two companies, Aakhirah Limited and Al-Qureshi Executives – of which Ms Sultana is sole director – that advertised a partnership with the news agency.
An appeal sought donations for emergency medication, food and shelter for those in need in the war-torn territory, the commission said.
Both the UK and US governments previously sanctioned and froze the assets of Ms Sultana and Mustafa Ayash using domestic counter-terrorism powers last month.
Ms Sultana is automatically disqualified from serving as a trustee or holding any senior management positions for any charity as part of these sanctions.
Established in 2006, Gaza Now is a news agency based in the Palestinian territory which has seen a growth in popularity since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October.
It has been accused of taking a pro-Hamas stance on the conflict.
The inquiry will look at what activities undertaken by Ms Sultana or the companies are relevant to the commission, and how the charitable funds were raised and used to see whether they can be fully accounted for.
A report into the inquiry’s findings will be published in due course.
Ms Sultana and Gaza Now have been contacted for comment.