Disruption of Hamas Fundraising Scheme: Seizure of $560,000 in Cryptocurrency Donations
The Justice Department has announced the disruption of a scheme by Hamas, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, to raise funds for terrorist activities and recruit supporters. Over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas were seized, and their fundraising and recruitment communication platforms were disrupted. This action aims to deprive Hamas of resources used for online recruitment and financing attacks.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg emphasized the importance of seizing these funds to prevent Hamas from radicalizing individuals and carrying out attacks. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro warned Hamas that their fundraising efforts for terror will be stopped, as their networks are vulnerable and their ability to wage war will be defeated.
The FBI's Cyber Division played a crucial role in seizing online infrastructure and cryptocurrency donations meant for Hamas. By intercepting illicit funds and disrupting their fundraising activities, the FBI aims to prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks for financing their operations. Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris highlighted the FBI's commitment to fighting terrorism and shutting off the flow of funds to protect the American people.
Court documents revealed that a group chat associated with Hamas directed supporters to a fundraising website and provided cryptocurrency donation addresses. Seizure warrants issued on March 25, 2025, June 25, 2025, and Oct. 10, 2025, led to the identification and seizure of approximately $560,000 in cryptocurrency intended for Hamas' Al Qassam Brigades.
In collaboration with human sources, the FBI's Albuquerque Field Office seized domains and servers controlled by the Al Qassam Brigades, enabling the interception of cryptocurrency donations. Information obtained from individuals attempting to donate to Hamas online will be used in future counterterrorism efforts. The FBI is investigating the case with the Counterterrorism Division, Cyber Division, and New York Field Office.
The prosecution of the case is led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tejpal Chawla and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery, with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Robert MacDonald of the Counterterrorism Section. This operation demonstrates the government's commitment to disrupting terrorist financing and preventing extremist groups from using digital platforms for their activities.