The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has taken action against a significant international fundraising network supporting Hamas. The designations include three individuals, a sham charity, and a financial institution in Gaza controlled by Hamas. Additionally, a longstanding supporter of Hamas and nine associated businesses have been targeted.
Janet L. Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury, stated, "As we mark one year since Hamas’s brutal terrorist attack, Treasury will continue relentlessly degrading the ability of Hamas and other destabilizing Iranian proxies to finance their operations and carry out additional violent acts."
This move is part of ongoing efforts to expose terrorists exploiting the non-profit organization sector. By identifying sham charities, legitimate humanitarian organizations can maintain access to financial services.
Since October 7, 2023, this marks the eighth tranche of U.S. designations targeting Hamas's financial networks. Previous actions include sanctions on cyber actors and joint designations with Australia and the United Kingdom.
The focus remains on countering terrorist threats in collaboration with international partners. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) provided key analysis for these designations.
Hamas has reportedly raised up to $10 million monthly through sham charities claiming to aid civilians in Gaza but instead funding its military wing. Europe is considered a key source for such fundraising activities.
Prominent figures designated include Hamid Abdullah Hussein al Ahmar from Türkiye, linked to Al-Quds International Foundation; Mohammad Hannoun from Italy; Majed al-Zeer from Germany; and Adel Doughman from Austria.
A bank in Gaza named Al-Intaj Bank is also under scrutiny for operating without a license from the Palestine Monetary Authority but under permit from Hamas authorities.
All property and interests related to these entities within U.S. jurisdiction are blocked as per OFAC regulations. Violations may lead to civil or criminal penalties for both U.S. and non-U.S persons involved in prohibited transactions.
OFAC emphasizes that sanctions aim not at punishment but at encouraging positive behavioral changes while ensuring humanitarian support reaches vulnerable populations.
