Authorities Disrupt Global Hamas Fundraising Network
Officials closed charities and made arrests across the U.S. and France following a probe into aid diversion.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Financial Crime
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Global authorities have dismantled a fundraising operation that allegedly funneled $2 million in humanitarian aid to Hamas. The network used charitable fronts to move resources, with a significant portion of funds raised following the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
Why it matters
The investigation reveals how illicit actors exploit public sympathy and humanitarian causes to finance militant operations. Officials allege the network used coded language to disguise the transfer of funds intended for the Al Qassam Brigades.
Saleem Alzaq and three U.S. donors each face up to 20 years in prison if convicted of criminal charges. French authorities have officially closed the charity Association Baraka while U.S. officials maintain active sanctions against identified individuals.
The players
Saleem Alzaq
He is identified as a battalion deputy in the Al Qassam Brigades and is charged with soliciting donations using humanitarian aid as a disguise.
Faouzi Barika
He founded the charity Association Baraka and is accused of sending cryptocurrency to the fundraising network.
Amel Oualid
She is the leader of the charity Ensemble C Mieux and was sanctioned under the Specially Designated Global Terrorist designation.
General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI)
This French intelligence agency was responsible for closing down the charity Association Baraka during the investigation.
U.S. Department of Justice
This federal agency is leading the criminal prosecution of the donors and the primary suspects involved in the financing network.
The details
Accused battalion deputy Saleem Alzaq allegedly solicited donations by using coded terms like 'buy bread' to move funds through organizations including Ensemble C Mieux and Association Baraka. Three U.S.-based men were also arrested for allegedly donating $155,000 to the network.
Timeline
The Hamas attack on Israel occurred on October 7, 2023.
Association Baraka was established in October 2023 shortly after the attack.
The report regarding the network closure was published on October 23, 2026.
Legal Context
This crackdown reflects the increasing scrutiny of international charitable organizations under the Specially Designated Global Terrorist designation. It marks a broader legal push by governments to prevent the exploitation of humanitarian aid channels for militant financing.
The closure of these charities means that donors who previously supported these organizations should verify the legitimacy of any future international aid solicitations. Local authorities in the U.S. and France may increase regulatory oversight for non-profits operating in conflict zones.
The takeaway
This case highlights the importance of vetting charitable organizations to ensure contributions reach their intended recipients rather than militant groups. When donating to international relief efforts, prioritize established global aid agencies with transparent financial reporting.
Further reading
For additional context on how international agencies combat illicit funding, visit the Financial Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The National.
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