Kathmandu— The Justice Department announced on Tuesday that it had seized over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas. The operation also involved taking control of website domains and communication platforms used by Hamas for fundraising and recruitment, as well as gathering information about thousands of individuals who contacted the group with the intent to donate.

Operation Details

In addition to seizing cryptocurrency meant to support Hamas’ military wing, known as Qassam Brigades, the Justice Department took control of website domains and communication platforms used for fundraising and recruitment. The department also obtained information about thousands of people who had contacted Hamas with a goal of giving money to the group.

U.S. Attorney's Message

"My message to Hamas is clear: your networks are not secure, your crypto is vulnerable, and we will not stop until your ability to wage war is defeated," Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, said in a video statement announcing the operation.

Hamas' Use of Cryptocurrency

According to FBI affidavits filed in connection with the seizures, Hamas began testing virtual currency fundraising around early 2019 through its Qassam Brigades and solicited donations on its Telegram channel. The group also used direct online fundraising methods, bragging that the cryptocurrency would be untraceable.

Investigative Breakthrough

A major investigative break arrived last year when FBI officials identified a financing network soliciting donations to the Qassam Brigades via virtual currency. A confidential source located in the United States also alerted law enforcement to a Telegram post asking for contributions to an email address associated with Hamas.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.