U.S. Justice Department Charges Hamas Fundraising Network
U.S. authorities charge Hamas members and associates for financing terror activities through international fundraising schemes.
2 min read
On October 2, 2026, the U.S. Justice Department announced the unsealing of an indictment against several individuals accused of financing Hamas through an international fundraising network. Saleem Alzaq, a Hamas member and battalion deputy in the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, is at the center of the case. Alzaq, 45, of Gaza, is alleged to have operated a fundraising network since January 2020, collecting over $1.7 million through campaigns presented as humanitarian aid for Gaza. The funds were funneled to Hamas, with the help of associates in France.
Alzaq’s Role in Hamas Propaganda
Alzaq is accused of photographing Hamas events and posting propaganda on social media platforms, including material celebrating the October 7, 2023 attacks. He allegedly distributed photographs of Hamas leaders such as Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar, and posted content glorifying deceased Hamas leaders and its terrorist attacks. The indictment also highlights his role in the Hamas media office, where he contributed to the organization’s propaganda efforts.
Associates and Their Contributions
Three of Alzaq’s associates were arrested, including Omar Adhami, Abdel Adhami, and Raed Yousef. Abdel Adhami, 35, and Omar Adhami, 33, both from Covington, Louisiana, allegedly contributed over $105,000 to Hamas, using wire transfers and intermediaries to conceal their donations. Raed Yousef, 56, of Lutz, Florida, provided almost $50,000 to the Hamas financing network. All are charged with various offenses, including providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Legal Charges and Penalties
Alzaq faces multiple charges, including conspiring to provide material support to Hamas, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Omar and Abdel Adhami are also charged with providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization, with penalties up to 20 years. Raed Yousef faces a range of charges, including conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and money laundering, each with a maximum penalty of 20 years. The Justice Department emphasized that anyone who finances or assists terrorist organizations responsible for the deaths of American citizens should expect to be prosecuted.
Source: The Gateway Pundit
