On October 7, 2024, exactly one year after the outbreak of the Gaza conflict, the United States government took decisive action against Hamas' international fundraising network. The U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions targeting key individuals and entities allegedly involved in financing the Palestinian militant group.
The sanctions focus on three individuals, a purported charity, and the Al-Intaj Bank in Gaza, which the Treasury claims is under Hamas control. Additionally, the measures affect a long-time Hamas supporter of Yemeni nationality residing in Turkey, along with nine of his business ventures.
Janet Yellen, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, emphasized the department's commitment to disrupting Hamas' financial capabilities. She stated, "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 action comes amid ongoing efforts to curtail Hamas' financial resources. The Treasury Department revealed that the group may have received up to $10 million monthly through donations in early 2024, with Europe being a key source of fundraising. Hamas, founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, has faced numerous financial challenges due to international sanctions and restrictions over the years.
The sanctions specifically target an Italy-based Hamas member accused of establishing the Charity Association of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, which allegedly funnels money to Hamas' military wing. Additionally, a senior Hamas representative in Germany and another in Austria were sanctioned.
"Hamas has exploited the suffering in Gaza to solicit funds through sham and front charities that falsely claim to help civilians in Gaza."
It's important to note that Hamas, whose name is an acronym for Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiya (Islamic Resistance Movement), is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries and international organizations. The group has been involved in multiple conflicts with Israel since its founding and took control of the Gaza Strip in 2007.
The timing of these sanctions coincides with the first anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and 250 hostages, according to Israeli figures. This assault led to a significant Israeli military response in Gaza, resulting in widespread destruction and a high number of Palestinian casualties.
While Hamas has attempted to rebrand itself in recent years to gain international legitimacy, it continues to face accusations of using human shields during conflicts and suppressing political opposition in Gaza. The organization's complex relationship with other Palestinian factions and its provision of social services in Gaza further complicate the geopolitical landscape.
As the U.S. Treasury Department intensifies its efforts to disrupt Hamas' financing, the international community remains focused on the ongoing situation in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The effectiveness of these sanctions in limiting Hamas' operational capabilities remains to be seen, as the group has historically adapted to financial pressures and restrictions.