US Seizes $560k in Cryptocurrency Donations Meant for Hamas Military Wing

The US Department of Justice has announced the seizure of over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas. The operation targeted the militant group's military wing and involved seizing website domains and communication platforms used for fundraising and recruitment.

According to FBI affidavits, Hamas began testing virtual currency fundraising in early 2019 through its Qassam Brigades. Officials bragged that the cryptocurrency would be untraceable, and instructions were provided on websites for making anonymous donations.

FBI officials identified a financing network soliciting donations to the Qassam Brigades via virtual currency last year. A confidential source in the US alerted law enforcement to a Telegram post asking for contributions to an email address associated with Hamas.