US puts Hamas chief Ismail Haniya on terror blacklist
Hamas leader Ismail Haniya
The move will likely increase tensions in West Asia after President Trump last month recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Isreal
The Trump administration has put the head of Palestinian movement Hamas, Ismail Haniya, on terror blacklist.
"Haniya has close links with Hamas' military wing and has been a proponent of armed struggle, including against civilians," the State Department said in a statement.
The move will likely increase tensions in West Asia after President Trump last month recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Isreal and decided to move the American embassy to the holy city.
"He has reportedly been involved in terrorist attacks against Israeli citizens. Hamas has been responsible for an estimated 17 American lives killed in terrorist attacks," the statement added.
Hamas which controls the Gaza Strip has been on the US terror blacklist since 1997.
The US decision to put Haniyaon terror blacklist will not deter the group's "resistance" to Israel, Hamassaid.
"The American decision to include IsmailHaniya on the terrorist list is a failed attempt to pressure the resistance," Hamas said in a statement, adding,"This decision will not deter us from continuing the resistance option to expel the occupation."
Hamas does not recognise Israel and has fought three wars againstthe Jewish state since 2008.
Last month the Isreali government had said that Hamas must disarm and recognise Israel under the Palestinian unity deal.
Hamas and Isreal have constantly exchanged fire across the border. In early JanuaryIsraeli jets bombarded Hamas bases in Gaza in response to alleged rocket fire from the Palestinian enclave.