Bashar Masri Seeks Dismissal of U.S. Lawsuit Linking Gaza Investments to Oct. 7 Attacks

Ramallah / PNN /Palestinian-American businessman Bashar Masri has asked a U.S. federal judge in Miami, Florida, to dismiss a lawsuit filed against him and several affiliated Palestinian companies by 323 American plaintiffs representing 80 families of victims and survivors of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.In the latest development in the case, Masri’s legal team submitted its formal response before the court, arguing that all allegations against Masri and his companies are baseless and unsupported by credible evidence or legal grounds. The defense said the plaintiffs failed to demonstrate any connection between Masri and alleged unlawful activities or prove that he had knowledge of such acts.The legal filing said the lawsuit relies on “speculation” seeking to portray Masri and his businesses as linked to “international terrorism” solely because of development projects and investments launched in the Gaza Strip.According to court documents, the lawsuit was filed under the U.S. Anti-Terrorism Act, which allows American victims and their families to pursue civil claims for damages.The defense also highlighted Masri’s role in major Palestinian development projects, including the planned city of Rawabi in the occupied West Bank, as well as investments in the real estate, energy and technology sectors. The filing said the projects, developed over more than three decades, were aimed at supporting the Palestinian economy and promoting development and stability.Masri has previously said his investments were intended to serve Palestinians by creating an economic environment supportive of growth and employment opportunities.He also said the allegations and related campaigns would not deter him from continuing efforts to support Palestinians, citing his belief in strengthening community resilience and advancing economic stability.