Major Update: UN Security Council Amends ISIL & Al-Qaida Sanctions List; SEBI Instructs Market Intermediaries

Major Update: UN Security Council Amends ISIL & Al-Qaida Sanctions List; SEBI Instructs Market Intermediaries​

The global financial regulatory landscape received a significant update as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) issued an amendment to its 1267(1999) sanctions list. This revision directly impacts financial compliance obligations for all regulated entities operating within the jurisdiction of India and internationally.

The notification, designated SC/16407 and dated July 08, 2026, details changes concerning individuals and entities associated with ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida. These updates pertain to assets freeze, travel bans, and arms embargoes set out in Security Council resolution 2610 (2021).

Regulatory Compliance Mandates for Intermediaries​

Market participants must take note of the ongoing requirements outlined by SEBI concerning counter-terrorism financing (CFT) compliance. Clause 54 of the SEBI Master Circular, 'Guidelines on Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Standards and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT),' dated June 06, 2024, sets forth strict guidelines.

This circular mandates that stock exchanges and registered intermediaries must ensure they do not maintain accounts in the name of any individuals or entities listed as suspected of having terrorist links by the UNSC. This adherence is vital for maintaining integrity within the financial system.

Details of the Amended Sanctions List​

The UNSC Committee established pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011), and 2253 (2015) has amended one entry in the ISIL (Da'esh) & Al-Qaida Sanctions List.

The specific change, detailed on July 08, 2026, confirms that certain sanctions no longer apply to a specified individual. The list amendment concerns an individual listed under Annex-1 of SC/16407.

Profile of the Amended Individual​

One individual mentioned in the updated notification is HAMIDAH (Original Script: ناباجالا حميدة). This person's profile includes information such as her designation and national identification number CF89095102DDAE, which is set to expire on 27 March 2025.

The listed address for the individual is the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Crucially, the 'Other information' section notes that she works as a mediator in financing channels for ISIL in Central Africa. She had also been charged with financing a bombing event in Kampala, Uganda, in 2021.

Procedure for Delisting Requests and Market Action​

Regulated Entities (REs) are advised to review the aforementioned UNSC communication thoroughly and ensure complete compliance across all operations. The comprehensive updated list of sanctioned individuals is available on the UN website.

For any requests for delisting, Regulated Entities are instructed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to forward these electronically to the Joint Secretary (CTCR), MHA. A copy of this request must also be marked to the Joint Secretary (UNP) of the Ministry of External Affairs.

Individuals or groups seeking removal from the Security Council's sanctions list can submit their requests for delisting to an independent and impartial Ombudsperson appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General.