Indictments Announced in Hamas Fundraising Case
Three years after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel, U.S. federal prosecutors have revealed indictments asserting that more than $1.7 million was illegally funneled to the organization. The indictment particularly highlights significant contributions from donors within the United States.
Key Figure Charged: Saleem Alzaq
Saleem Alzaq, a 45-year-old resident of Gaza and purported long-time member of Hamas, faces charges for allegedly spearheading a fundraising operation disguised as humanitarian aid. These efforts reportedly took place from January 2020 through December 2025, with over $1.7 million raised, including at least $626,000 from U.S. donors.
Details of the Allegations
The indictment claims that Alzaq’s campaigns aimed to provide food and essential supplies to Palestinians in Gaza. It is alleged that he has been involved with Hamas since at least 2017, during which time he purportedly promoted Hamas propaganda, even celebrating the attacks on October 7, 2023.
International Fundraising Network
Prosecutors assert that Alzaq coordinated an international fundraising campaign that spanned both the U.S. and France. His collaborators in France were reportedly involved in collecting and transferring funds, while significant contributions came from various U.S. residents, including:
- Two brothers from Louisiana, allegedly contributing approximately $105,000.
- A Florida resident who allegedly provided nearly $50,000.
Charges and Legal Implications
Alzaq faces multiple charges, including:
- Conspiracy to provide material support to Hamas
- Conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act
- Conspiracy to commit money laundering
- Conspiracy to defraud the United States
If convicted, the first three charges could each result in a maximum of 20 years in prison, while the conspiracy to defraud charge carries a potential five-year sentence.
Co-Conspirators Arrested
The U.S. Department of Justice has also taken steps to arrest three co-conspirators, identified as:
- Abdel Adhami, 35, and his brother Omar Adhami, 33, both from Covington, Louisiana, charged with providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization.
- Raed Yousef, 56, of Lutz, Florida, also charged with various related offenses, including conspiracy and money laundering.
Evidence from Undercover Operations
Prosecutors outlined that an undercover operation yielded significant evidence implicating Alzaq in knowingly directing donations to Hamas. For instance, in November 2025, an undercover officer, posing as a Hamas supporter, connected with Alzaq through Snapchat. Allegedly, Alzaq detailed methods of receiving funds in New York and mentioned connections to facilitate this transfer.
Additionally, coded language was employed in their communications, wherein references to “bread” and “bakeries” were made regarding funding to Hamas.
Attorney General’s Statement
Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, “Anyone who finances or assists terrorist organizations responsible for the deaths of American citizens should expect to be prosecuted by the Department of Justice.” He reaffirmed the commitment to dismantle terrorist finance networks and pursue justice for victims’ families.
Conclusion
This case underscores the complexities of international fundraising networks purportedly engaged in supporting terrorism, highlighting ongoing efforts by U.S. law enforcement to combat such activities effectively.