The U.S. Justice Department, in coordination with the FBI, has seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas, according to an announcement on Tuesday. This action represents a disruption of financing for the militant group, as stated by the department. In addition to the cryptocurrency seizures, the department has taken control of website domains and communication platforms utilized by Hamas for fundraising and recruitment purposes. Furthermore, law enforcement has gathered information about thousands of individuals who had contacted Hamas with the intention of providing financial support.

FBI affidavits filed in connection with the seizures reveal that Hamas began experimenting with virtual currency fundraising around early 2019 through its Qassam Brigades, or military wing. The group solicited donations via its Telegram channel and engaged in direct online fundraising. Hamas officials reportedly claimed that the cryptocurrency would be untraceable and provided instructions for making anonymous donations on their websites. A significant investigative breakthrough occurred last year when FBI officials identified a financing network soliciting virtual currency donations for the Qassam Brigades. A confidential source in the United States alerted law enforcement to a Telegram post requesting contributions to an email address associated with Hamas. Brett Leatherman, an FBI assistant director in charge of the cyber division, emphasized that the bureau will continue to leverage its authorities to intercept illicit funds and prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks for financing their operations. Source

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