Justice Department Seizes $560K in Crypto Donations for Hamas

The US Department of Justice announced Tuesday that it had seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas' military wing. The operation targeted websites and communication platforms used for fundraising and recruitment, as well as thousands of individuals who contacted Hamas to donate money.

FBI officials identified a financing network soliciting virtual currency donations via Telegram and other online channels. Hamas officials reportedly bragged that the cryptocurrency would be untraceable and provided instructions on making anonymous donations.

According to FBI affidavits, Hamas began testing virtual currency fundraising in early 2019 through its Qassam Brigades, or military wing. The group solicited donations on Telegram and used direct online fundraising methods.