How Hamas and terrorist groups use crypto donations
As Israel grapples with the aftermath of an attack orchestrated by Hamas, we look at the role of crypto in terrorism financing. On Oct. 7, Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a devastating attack against Israel, killing at least 900 people and taking captive more than 130 others. The dawn incursion, aimed at several populated areas, including Tel Aviv and Ashkelon, caught Israeli security off guard as the country celebrated a religious holiday. In response, Israel declared war against Hamas, hitting more than 1,000 targets in the tiny enclave of Gaza believed to be Hamas gathering places. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, at least 680 civilians have died due to Israel’s retaliatory actions. Even as the battle rages on, many wonder how a criminal group like Hamas can access the funds required to plan and execute an attack of such scope and magnitude. Previously, the Sunni Islamist militant group was known to accept cryptocurrency to fund their activities. Still, they d...