Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree reveals that Canadian national security agencies are investigating a British Columbia company accused of financial links to the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.
Agencies Review Allegations
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) are examining the situation, with further updates expected soon, the minister stated on Wednesday. Anandasangaree, who oversees these agencies, addressed concerns following U.S. sanctions against the Vancouver-based firm for its alleged involvement in a $100-million Hezbollah financial operation.
Seven Seas for International Trading and Logistics, incorporated in B.C. in 2022 by three Qatar-based directors, remains active according to corporate records. Canada has not imposed sanctions on the company to date.
Provincial and Federal Coordination
The B.C. government has contacted federal authorities regarding Seven Seas, as Ottawa handles sanctions tied to terrorist financing. “Any next steps from the province would be informed by that engagement with our federal partners,” the B.C. Finance Ministry stated.
Neither the RCMP, CSIS, nor Global Affairs Canada has commented on inquiries about the firm.
Hezbollah’s Role and Canadian Concerns
Hezbollah forms a core element of Iran’s axis of resistance, comprising terrorist groups advancing Tehran’s regional agenda. Canada designates it as a radical Shia organization inspired by the Iranian revolution. The Lebanese group participates in ongoing conflicts involving Israel, escalating since late February.
Canadian agencies have previously accused Hezbollah of fundraising and money laundering within the country.
Minister Addresses U.S. Action
When questioned about the matter surfacing through U.S. enforcement, Anandasangaree emphasized ongoing investigations. “We often do not talk about matters that are under investigation, and as you’re aware, there are a range of things that our law enforcement do, including on national security matters, and this is one of those matters where they will have more say,” he explained.
U.S. sanctions describe the B.C. company as part of a network directed by Hezbollah financier Alaa Hamieh, operating across Lebanon, Syria, Poland, Slovenia, Qatar, and Canada. Founder Raoof Fadel maintains ties to Hamieh and the Hezbollah finance network. Treasury officials label Seven Seas as Hezbollah-associated and the Canadian arm of Hamieh’s Lebanese entities.
Contacted in Qatar on Wednesday, Fadel indicated he is consulting his lawyer before responding.
