WASHINGTON: The United States is expanding sanctions against leaders of the Haqqani network of insurgents that operates in Afghanistan and Pakistan, blacklisting a son of the group's founder who is believed responsible for kidnappings and organizing high-profile attacks.

The State and Treasury departments said Wednesday that they had added Badruddin Haqqani to their list of “specially designated global terrorists,” a step that will freeze any assets he may have in US jurisdictions.

It also bars Americans from doing business with him or for his benefit. Haqqani joins his father and two brothers on the list.

The State Department says the step will help stem the flow of financial assistance to a dangerous individual.