MXThe U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas, according to a statement by the Department of Justice. The operation targeted funds meant to support Hamas’s military wing, the Qassam Brigades, and involved taking control of websites and communication platforms used for fundraising and recruitment. The FBI also obtained information on thousands of individuals who contacted Hamas to donate money. Jeanine Pirro, a federal prosecutor in Washington D.C., stated that Hamas’s networks are vulnerable and emphasized that efforts would continue until Hamas’s ability to wage war is defeated. According to sworn statements from the FBI, Hamas began using cryptocurrencies for fundraising around early 2019 through its Qassam Brigades, including requests for donations via Telegram and online platforms. Officials from Hamas had previously claimed that virtual currencies could not be traced, but the FBI identified a funding network last year after a confidential source in the U.S. alerted authorities to a Telegram post requesting contributions to an email address linked to Hamas.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the FBI's actions against Hamas, citing official statements and operations without overtly favoring any side. It includes quotes from both U.S. officials and mentions the lack of response from Hamas, maintaining a balanced tone.
