Leeds man sentenced for supporting proscribed organisation

A 23-year-old man from Leeds has been sentenced for demonstrating support for the proscribed organisation Hamas.

Ozain Ibn Yousef was given a 16-week custodial sentence, suspended for two years. He will also be subject to a rehabilitation requirement for 35 days and 100 hours of community service.

Ibn Yousef admitted publishing pro-Hamas content on his X account in October and November including images of armed soldiers wearing Hamas headbands. He also shared Hamas-led videos.

He was arrested on 24 November as part of an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing North East. On February 27, 2024, he was charged with Publishing a series of images in such a way, or in such circumstances, as to arouse reasonable suspicion that he is a supporter of a proscribed organisation, namely Hamas, contrary to section 13(1A) and (3) of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East said: “As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, UK policing is working closely with affected communities to offer support and reassurance at a time of heightened emotion, anxiety and fear.

“Alongside our partners, we will act quickly to disrupt any activity that threatens their safety.  

“Supporting or glorifying acts of terrorism, and the groups engaged in them, helps to further terrorist objectives by extending their reach and influence. Anyone demonstrating support for proscribed organisations like Hamas can expect to be prosecuted. We will deny them any opportunity to increase their profile or promote their violent agenda.”