Iran: US Ruling to Seize Alavi Fund Assets Illegal
TEHRAN (Tasnim) — Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman lashed out at a US court’s decision to seize the assets of Alavi Foundation, an Iranian charitable organization in New York City, saying the ruling lacks legitimacy and credibility.
Marzieh Afkham was reacting to a ruling by a New York City court that authorizes the confiscation of property of the non-profitable organization.
The American prosecutors have raised money laundering charges against Alavi Foundation, arguing that it is linked to Iran.
They seek to confiscate the 36-storey 650 Fifth Avenue skyscraper which is jointly owned by Alavi Foundation and Assa Corporation. The US authorities want to sell the building and distribute the proceeds to the families of those killed in terror attacks which Washington claims have been sponsored by Tehran.
The Iranian foreign ministry spokeswoman strongly rejected the allegations as baseless and politically motivated, saying Iran has already been a victim of terrorism.
“This foundation is not linked to Iran… Terrorism allegations leveled against Iran are repetitive and baseless,” said Afkham.
She also said the confiscation of a charitable organization by the US government constitutes a blatant violation of freedom of religion.