Iran Said to Funnel Hundreds of Millions to Hezbollah Through Dubai Networks

Overview

• The Wall Street Journal reports that Iran restored and expanded Hezbollah funding over the past year, moving hundreds of millions of dollars through Dubai-centered laundering chains.
• Proceeds from Iranian oil sales are said to pass via exchange houses, front companies, couriers and aligned businessmen before reaching Lebanon through Hawala transfers.
• A senior United Arab Emirates official says the country is working to shut the activity inside its borders and is coordinating with international partners.
• A senior U.S. official warns of Hezbollah-bound funds being routed through Turkey and Iraq.
• Arab officials say Tehran adapted to ceasefire limits by sending travelers with smaller sums or compact valuables, and Hezbollah remains funded by illicit streams such as narcotics and diamonds.