US sanctions Hamas financial network, arresting six individuals

The United States government has imposed sanctions on three individuals and two France-based charities, alleging they funneled more than $2 million to Hamas. These entities are accused of employing deceptive charitable fronts and cryptocurrency channels to finance militant operations since 2020, with a significant portion of funds raised after October 2023.

Under the new measures, all property and interests in property belonging to the designated individuals and entities within US jurisdiction are blocked. Financial institutions must report these assets to the Office of Foreign Assets Control, effectively isolating the targets from the US financial system.

Federal Charges and Arrests

Federal authorities have simultaneously unsealed indictments and executed arrests across the United States and France. Six individuals now face charges, including conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization and money laundering.

Officials stated that these enforcement actions represent a coordinated effort to dismantle international fundraising networks supporting Hamas. The timing of fund-raising, particularly the $1.5 million raised after October 7, 2023, signals a continued focus on disrupting the financial architecture of the group.

Impact on Global Counterterrorism

The United States

The US Treasury Department emphasized its ongoing commitment to identifying, isolating, and imposing consequences on those who provide financial lifelines to Hamas. The sanctions target individuals like Saleem Alzaq, accused of being part of Hamas's military wing, and Faouzi Barika and Amel Oualid, residents of France operating charities.

The named charities, Association Baraka and Ensemble C Mieux, were allegedly used to collect funds "ostensibly for humanitarian purposes to aid Gazan civilians." These actions highlight the US strategy to counter the use of charitable organizations as fronts for illicit financial activities supporting terrorist groups.