US Seizes $560K in Crypto Donations Intended for Hamas

The US Department of Justice has seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas. The funds were taken from various digital wallets and platforms used by the terrorist group to solicit donations. According to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, authorities disrupted Hamas' fundraising and recruitment communications by seizing key infrastructure.

Investigators intercepted thousands of people who tried to send money to Hamas through its Telegram channel and official websites. The Al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas' military wing, boasted that Bitcoin donations were untraceable and would be used for violent causes.

The FBI's Justin A. Garris stated that the seizure of cryptocurrency directly affects Hamas' capabilities. 'Our teams ability to take that cryptocurrency, degrades their ability to resupply their military as well as recruit new members into the military,' he said.

Garris added that authorities believe the $560,000 seizure could be only a fraction of the total funding effort and that they will continue to work with international partners to seize more funds. The investigation extends beyond 18 months and targets not only Hamas but also al-Qaida and ISIS.