FBI seizes over $560,000 in crypto meant to fund Hamas, disrupting a years-long fundraising network

The U.S. government seized over $560,000 worth of cryptocurrency funds from Hamas, marking a significant disruption to the militant group's financial network. The Justice Department revealed that the seized funds were intended to support Hamas' military wing, as well as its recruitment and fundraising efforts. In addition to the cryptocurrency, authorities took control of websites and communication platforms used by Hamas for financial purposes.

FBI Assistant Director Brett Leatherman emphasized the ongoing commitment to intercepting illicit funds and preventing terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks for their operations. The seizures were a result of years of investigation and led to the identification of a financing network soliciting donations via virtual currency.

The FBI also obtained information on thousands of individuals who had expressed interest in donating to Hamas. As stated in a video statement by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, Hamas' networks are no longer secure, their cryptocurrency is vulnerable, and the agency remains determined to defeat their ability to wage war.