Justice Department seizes more than $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations for Hamas

The FBI has seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas, according to the Justice Department. This seizure represents a significant disruption to the financial networks supporting the militant group. In addition to the cryptocurrency, the department took control of website domains and communication platforms used by Hamas for fundraising and recruitment efforts. Furthermore, the FBI obtained information on thousands of individuals who had attempted to donate money to the group.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro emphasized the importance of this operation, stating, "My message to Hamas is clear: your networks are not secure, your crypto is vulnerable, and we will not stop until your ability to wage war is defeated." This sentiment was conveyed in a video statement announcing the operation.

According to FBI affidavits, Hamas began experimenting with virtual currency fundraising as early as 2019 through its Qassam Brigades, or military wing. Donations were solicited through their Telegram channel and via direct online fundraising methods. Hamas officials reportedly boasted that cryptocurrency donations would be untraceable, and their websites provided instructions for making anonymous contributions.

A significant breakthrough in this investigation occurred last year when FBI officials identified a financing network soliciting donations for the Qassam Brigades via cryptocurrency. A confidential U.S. source alerted law enforcement to a Telegram post requesting contributions to an email address linked to Hamas. Brett Leatherman, an FBI assistant director overseeing the cyber division, stated that the bureau remains committed to using its authorities to intercept illicit funds and prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks for financial gain.

Hamas officials were unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.